News Summary
Juneteenth, now a federal holiday, will be celebrated across Central Texas with numerous events planned for June 19. The date marks the liberation of the last enslaved people in the U.S., and various activities will occur, from parades to community celebrations, emphasizing the importance of freedom and equality in history.
Austin, Texas – Juneteenth, recognized as a federal holiday for the fourth consecutive year, will be celebrated across Central Texas on June 19. This date commemorates the moment when the last enslaved people in the United States learned of their freedom 160 years ago in Galveston, Texas.
On this holiday, federal offices, including post offices and courts, will be closed. Communities throughout the region are organizing a variety of events leading up to, during, and after June 19, allowing residents to participate in the historical significance of the day.
Key Events and Celebrations
Several celebrations are planned in Austin, featuring activities for people of all ages. Some of the notable events include:
- “Freedom + Juneteenth: A Night of Jubilation” at Pease Park on June 7 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. The theme is “Family Reunion” and will feature music, games, and food.
- The Mueller Neighborhood Association is hosting its inaugural Juneteenth celebration on June 7 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Branch Park Pavilion, focusing on Black-owned businesses and historical education.
- Round Rock is holding its 19th annual Juneteenth Festival from June 13-14 at Old Settlers Park.
- A community event called “Stay Black & Live Citywide Juneteenth Celebration” is scheduled for June 14 in the Rosewood Neighborhood, starting at 11 a.m. The event will feature a cookout and music festival.
- Leander is hosting a block party on June 19 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Robin Bledsoe Park, including music and food.
- The Austin Community College is holding a Juneteenth Celebration at Eastview Campus on June 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring games and giveaways.
- “Hella Free: The Juneteenth Function” will take place at Empire Control Room on June 19 from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m., with free entry.
- A parade is set to begin at 10 a.m. on MLK Jr. Blvd on June 19, followed by festivities at Rosewood Park from noon to 9 p.m.
- Travis County will celebrate its 36th annual Juneteenth on June 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 800 Lavaca St., offering food and music.
- Pflugerville is hosting a Juneteenth event at Rock the Block on June 20 from 8 to 10 p.m., featuring live music and food.
- The Austin Public Library at Windsor Park Branch will organize a Juneteenth Book Club Brunch on June 21 discussing the book “The Color of Law.”
- The Neill-Cochran House Museum will have a Juneteenth celebration on June 22 from noon to 4 p.m., which includes food.
- DRUMLine Live, an HBCU marching band showcase, is scheduled for June 22 at Bass Concert Hall at 3 p.m. with ticket prices ranging from $29 to $59.
Historical Context
Juneteenth celebrations have a long history dating back to the 19th century, following General Order No. 3, which was read by Union Major-General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865. This order announced the end of slavery in Texas, which was the last holdout of enslaved individuals in the nation. Originally celebrated in Texas, Emancipation Day events spread across the Southern states over the following decades.
In 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a federal holiday, creating a momentous occasion for Americans to honor and reflect upon a pivotal point in U.S. history. As communities across Central Texas gear up for the celebrations, residents are encouraged to participate in recognizing the importance of freedom and equality.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Angleton Honors Texas Heritage at Stephen F. Austin Experience
Interactive Signs Unveiled at Bethany Cemetery for Juneteenth
Austin Initiates Long-Term Planning to Combat Gentrification in East Austin
February Recognized as Black History Month by Trump
Austin’s Martin Luther King Jr. Community March Canceled
Additional Resources
- KVUE: Juneteenth Events in Austin, Texas
- Wikipedia: Juneteenth
- KXAN: East Austin Juneteenth Parade
- Google Search: Juneteenth Austin
- Community Impact: 15 Events Commemorating Juneteenth
- Google Scholar: Juneteenth Texas
- Austin Monthly: 25 Things To Do in Austin in June
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Juneteenth
- Statesman: Juneteenth 2024 Events in Austin
- Google News: Juneteenth Celebrations Texas
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
