Celebrate Juneteenth 2024 in an around Austin, Texas
Juneteenth Celebrations across Austin
Austin, the vibrant cultural hub of Texas, is gearing up to celebrate Juneteenth, one of the oldest commemorations of the end of slavery in the United States. The celebration of Juneteenth, a blend of the words June and nineteenth, will take place across Austin, offering everyone a chance to engage in meaningful dialogues about freedom, history, and culture while enjoying a plethora of activities.
A Plethora of Events Celebrating Juneteenth
Several events will take place in Austin to mark this day. From parades and concerts to educational symposiums and food festivals, there is something for every age and interest.
The Dove Springs Recreation Center will start the celebrations early on June 14 with a free Juneteenth Jamboree featuring games, food, music, and family activities. Similarly, Old Settlers Park in Round Rock is hosting a two-day Juneteenth festival from June 14, which will feature a BBQ taste-off and a free concert.
For those interested in learning about Juneteenth in a fun and engaging environment, the San Marcos Public Library is organizing an event titled ‘Why We Celebrate Juneteenth – Children Style’ on June 15. This kids-friendly festivity will teach about the importance of Juneteenth through arts, crafts and various activities.
The Black Makers Market sponsored by Huston-Tillotson, offers a unique opportunity to support more than 40 Black-owned vendors while enjoying food from local trucks. The market, taking place on June 15, will also host a kid’s corner with various activities and learning opportunities.
Parades, Block Parties and More
A celebration of freedom and legacy, the Juneteenth Block Party at Robin Bledsoe Park in Leander on June 15 invites everyone to enjoy food and craft vendors, bounce houses, and a basketball tournament. Don’t miss the opportunity to groove to the music of The Soulful Soundz Party Band.
On the same day, the Central Texas Juneteenth Parade and Festival organized by the Central Texas Juneteenth Committee will begin at MLK Jr. Boulevard and end at Rosewood Park. Bastrop is holding its own Juneteenth Freedom Celebration, promising an all-day event with live music, food vendors, and a special unveiling of a Harriet Tubman statue.
Educational Symposiums and Screenings
The George Washington Carver Museum will not only host a community cookout and festival featuring music by Scarface and Tank and the Bangas but also a two-day ‘Juneteenth Free Your Mind Symposium’. This event will see speakers such as independent presidential candidate Cornel West discussing racial justice, and Texas Poet Laureat Amanda Johnston sharing her thoughts on an artist’s duty.
The Route to Emancipation Screening on June 17 will kickstart the Juneteenth celebrations with Black History Bike Ride. The short documentary screening at the Paramount Theatre will be followed by ‘The Color Purple’.
On June 19, the Juneteenth Social Ride and Block Party will meet at the Capitol for a bike ride tour of historical sites. The tour will be followed by a block party at Rosewood Park with food by Chef Amanda Turner.
Wrapping up the Celebrations
The celebrations will wrap up on June 21 with the Juneteenth Jubilee hosted by Travis County. This 35th annual Juneteenth celebration will consist of vendors, informational booths, music, performances, and games.
In conclusion, Austin’s Juneteenth celebrations are not just a commemoration of an important event in history, but also a vibrant display of the rich and diverse cultures that contribute to Austin’s charm.