Juneteenth is a celebration that commemorates the emancipation of African-American slaves in the United States. Specifically, it marks the date, June 19th, 1865, when emancipation was finally announced in Texas, more than two years after Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.
Today the holiday celebrates freedom and the African-American community. It’s celebrated with parties and festivals across the country.
There are several Juneteenth celebrations in the Triangle. All are free.
Juneteenth Celebration at Stagville
Saturday, June 8th, 2019, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Stagville State Historic Site, 5828 Old Oxford Highway, Durham
Free
History and family fun, with live performers, storytellers, crafts, nature walks, costumed interpreters, and food.
15th Annual North Carolina Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 15th, 2019, 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.
East Main Street, between Roxboro and Dillard Streets, in Downtown Durham
Free
This is the largest area Juneteenth celebration and it includes an opening ceremony, live music, food and drink vendors, craft vendors, a health fair, booths from local organizations, and a children’s village games, face-painting, crafts and activities.
Cary’s First Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 15th, 2019
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cary Downtown Park, 319 S. Academy Street, Cary
Free
This event will include special activities for the whole family, designed to engage, educate and connect.
2nd Annual Chatham County Juneteenth Observance of Human Rights–A Celebration of African American Culture and Resilience
Saturday, June 22nd, 2019
11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Chatham Agricultural & Conference Center, 1192 US Hwy 64 Business, Pittsboro
Free
This event features talks from historians, drummers, poets, storytellers, musicians, kids’ activities, health activities and more. Food trucks will be on site and the first 400 guests get a free $5 food truck coupon.
Juneteenth Celebration in Wake Forest
Saturday, June 22nd, 2019
12:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Alston-Massenburg Center, 416 N. Taylor Street, Wake Forest
Free
Freedom March, food, activities, and fun for the kids, including a water sprayer.
Black Farmers Market–Juneteenth Edition
Sunday, June 23rd, 2019
12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
NC Mutual Building Plaza, 411 W. Chapel Hill Street, Durham
Free
Shop from Black farmers and business owners. There will also be music and speakers.
