Virtual Library Display

June 19th, also known as "Juneteenth" or "Freedom Day" is a celebration of freedom and the end of slavery in the United States. Though the Emancipation Proclamation was enacted in 1863, it mainly provided protection for enslaved people in Confederate states. However, in states such as Texas, there were no legal protections for enslaved people and many enslavers moved there following the Emancipation Proclamation. On June 19th, 1965 Union troops entered the city of Galveston, Texas and announced that those who were enslaved would now be free, marking the date that we now celebrate as the end of slavery in the United States. Originally known as 'Jubilee Day', Juneteenth is considered the longest running African-American holiday. It is meant to commemorate freedom, and is often observed through celebrations featuring music, cookouts/barbecues, activism, and more. 

National Museum of African American History and Culture - Juneteenth

History Channel - What is Juneteenth?

Image Credit: Eater Houston/Seita/Shutterstock

Feasts, Cookouts and Barbecues are some of the main ways that Freedom Day is observed each year. One popular way to celebrate Juneteenth is by eating Red Foods, as well as foods that are considered 'Good Luck" in African American tradition. Certain foods might be cooked differently on Juneteenth to include a red element, such as adding strawberries to a salad or including red peppers with collard greens.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

⬇ Check out these videos for Juneteenth recipes, and to learn more about the significance of food in Freedom Day celebrations! ⬇ 

Source/Credit: Youtube - One Mic History

Source/Credit: Youtube - National Museum of African American History and Culture

Source/Credit: Youtube - That Girl Can Cook/Juneteenth Recipes Playlist

Image Credit: Artburst Miami/Osmany Torres

Another popular form of Juneteenth celebration is musical performances, choral singing, and concerts. Music is a large part of African-American culture, and for this reason there is a focus on songs that represent the movement of resilience used by enslaved people to the joyous songs of liberation and celebration of black culture. Resistance songs were also heavily present during the Civil Rights movement, leading to their lasting impact and inclusion in Juneteenth celebrations today. Across the United States, there are multiple music festivals each year in celebration of Juneteenth, from coast to coast across the US.

Fredbock Publishing - The Resonant Melodies of Juneteenth

Live 365 - A Musical History of Freedom

⬇ Learn more about the relevance of music to Juneteenth and Black Culture, and check out some topical songs! ⬇ 

Atlanta Juneteenth Parade and Music Festival

Juneteenth Jubilee - Camden, GA

Come celebrate! NAACP Camden County Branch is planning the annual Juneteenth Jubilee on Saturday, June 14, 2025 from 11am-3pm at Cornelia Jackson Memorial Park (201 15th St, Woodbine, GA). Georgia NAACP supports Camden County’s Juneteenth Jubilee.

Join us to celebrate our community and uplift our history! The event will include:

-Live entertainment including a historical skit
-Vendors - support local businesses and organizations!
-Free food 12pm, until supplies last
-Free books about African American history and culture for children of all ages and adults
-Presentations to learn about the history of Juneteenth
-The 2nd edition of the Camden County Black History Booklet will be available for sale ($25).
-Raffle - Grand Prize is a 43" Insignia 4K UHD Smart Fire TV! Plus additional prizes.

Juneteenth Freedom Day - Jesup, GA

Celebrating the History of Juneteenth. Celebrating Unity in the Community. Celebrating the continuation of Black History! Vendors. Live Music. Fun. Food. Old School Games! Bouncehouses! More! The Community of the City of Jesup, Ga & other surrounding communities are welcomed! Positive Vibes Only! 

Glynn County Tigers Annual Juneteenth Festival, Brunswick GA

The Glynn County Tigers Annual Juneteenth Festival is right around the corner, and we’re expecting THOUSANDS of attendees once again!

From food to clothing, handmade goods to community resources—this is the place for bold brands and local legends!

Historic Selden Park – Brunswick, GA

Saturday, June 21, 2025

12 PM – 4 PM

Free admission for the public = BIG visibility for YOU!

Let’s make this a day to remember.

“A Day For Us, By Us”

Juneteenth: A Freedom Celebration - Waycross, GA

Get ready, Waycross and surrounding areas!

Join us for the Juneteenth Parade on Saturday, June 14th, and the annual Juneteenth Community Day Celebration on Thursday, June 19th!

We are stronger together!