8 Juneteenth Events in Galveston, Houston, June 19

June 16, also known as Freedom Day, will be celebrated on Wednesday. Across the country, people are preparing to celebrate the federal holiday, which honors the emancipation of the last enslaved African Americans in 1865, especially in Galveston, Texas, where Juneteenth originated.

Several Juneteenth events took place last week and many activities are planned for the holiday itself on Juneteenth.

For those looking to commemorate Juneteenth in the Galveston or Houston areas on Wednesday, here are some interesting activities to consider:

When: 10am-11am

Or: 2328 Broadway, Galveston

Local elected officials and members of the Galveston community will gather at Ashton Villa to honor former State Rep. Al Edwards, also known as “Mr. Juneteenth.” Edwards was instrumental in the approval of Juneteenth as a state holiday in Texas in 2007. There is a memorial statue of Edwards near Ashton Villa that depicts him holding a copy of the Juneteenth legislation. The Houston lawmaker died in 2020, but his legacy lives on, with Juneteenth becoming a federal holiday in 2021.

Wednesday’s event will be free and open to the public.

When: 10am-7pm

Or: 2704 8 Mile Road, Galveston

Head to Sunny Beach for a day of joy, unity and cultural pride. The free event will include music, food, games and activities honoring this historic holiday. Guests are encouraged to bring a dish or items to contribute to the family gathering. Click here for more information.

When: Any day

Or: Pier 21, Galveston

Trace the steps taken by Union soldiers arriving in Galveston on June 19, 1865 when they delivered the monumental news that all enslaved black people were finally freed, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 The Freedom Walk is a self-guided tour that will take you to five historic sites, where you can learn about their significance for Juneteenth.

When: 5 p.m.-8 p.m.

Or: 2115 Runnels Street, Houston

Celebrate the opening night of the Our Colorful Culture art exhibition at East End Lofts. The exhibition features six artists whose works explore the beauty of African American culture and the African diaspora. Sip wine while admiring the art and enjoy a delicious barbecue meal. Tickets, cost $15, can be purchased on Eventbrite.

When: 4 p.m.-8 p.m.

Or: 1204 Victor Street, Houston

Join the Houston Freedmen’s Town Conservancy for its first Juneteenth Elevated Kickback. The event will be a day-long celebration of Black American culture with live performances, a singing workshop, Southern comfort food, treats, an art exhibit and much more. The event’s marketing doesn’t explicitly say it’s free, but also doesn’t list ticket options. Click here for more information.

When: 4 p.m.-9 p.m.

Or: 6112 Wheatley Street, Houston

If you’re looking for a family night out in North Houston, head to Acres Home for their Cultural Arts Festival. This exciting, free event will feature live music, visual arts, a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, food trucks and much more. Click here for more information.

When: 1 p.m.-3 p.m.

Or: 2310 Elgin Street, Houston

Discover the history and traditions of Juneteenth by creating stunning floral wreaths. The event, hosted by Rado Market and Joanne Townsend of Design and Revive, will feature local vendors as well as refreshments. Materials will be provided and all ages are welcome. Tickets for the workshop are available for $25 for individual entry or $40 for family entry, before taxes and fees. Event information does not specify how many people are included in the family package. Buy tickets on Eventbrite.

When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Or: 1340 Independence Boulevard, Missouri City

If you’re in the southeast part of the Houston area, attend the HUBB Eighteenth Anniversary Celebration at Hunters Glen Park. Bring the whole family to enjoy a day of togetherness and celebration with live music, mouth-watering food, games, arts and crafts, local vendors and much more. Click here for more information.