There are lots of events happening around town for you to celebrate Juneteenth in Houston with the whole family this year.
June brings summer days filled with summer camps, vacations, days poolside and lots of popsicles. Maybe it’s because school ended a few days before June but I have been looking forward to this month. While the kids’ quenchless appetite can make me question my parenting choices, I thoroughly enjoy the extra time I get with my kiddos. One of my favorite days in June is Juneteenth. It has become a special day for me in the twelve+ years I have lived in Houston. Here are some tips for parents this month as we talk to our kids about Juneteenth. While some of you will be familiar and already celebrate Juneteenth, I recognize that Houston is a transient city, which means many may not be familiar with the holiday.
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth is a holiday celebrated on June 19 to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people in the US. The holiday was first celebrated in Texas, where on that date in 1865, in the aftermath of the Civil War, slaves were declared free under the terms of the 1862 Emancipation Proclamation. On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden made Juneteenth the eleventh Federal holiday. For many Black people in the south especially, Juneteenth is celebrated as their Independence Day.
Ask Questions to Your Kids
Do you know what Juneteenth is? Are there words in that definition that you didn’t understand? What are your friends saying about Juneteenth? Why do you think it is important for Americans to celebrate Juneteenth? Have you seen or heard something online about Juneteenth that you want to discuss?
Do what Comes Naturally
If you and your family love parades, attend Houston’s Juneteenth parade. If you share books before bedtime, read a book with them or talk to your older kids about one they can read on their own. If you like shopping together, buy Black that day. If you are planning a beach trip this summer, stop at the memorial in Galveston before your trip. Just don’t go overboard if that’s not your thing. Kids will know if you are not sincere and may miss the importance of remembering this day. Even if you are not a festive family, I encourage you to use this opportunity to talk to your children about the history of why Juneteenth is important in American history.
Celebrate Juneteenth in Houston
There are many wonderful events that honor the legacy of freedom that Juneteenth commemorates. Add them to your calendar or just remember the meaning behind the activity, because part of our job as parents is to teach our kids so they can in turn teach their own kids. Small steps make a big difference when we emphasize the meaning all year long, and not just on one day.
Jubilee: A Juneteenth Celebration in Songs
Saturday, June 8
5:30 pm- 7:30 pm
This FREE event is a choral experience that will honor the legacy of the Negro Spiritual and tell the story of Black emancipation through freedom songs.
Juneteenth Liberation Market
Thursday, June 13 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm
Kick off your Juneteenth celebration with the Liberation Market presented by SOA Co. Books in collaboration with CAMH! This event is FREE, but reservations are encouraged. Support over 30 local vendors and Black literary arts while enjoying sound from DJ Womon.
Juneteenth Family Fun Day and Concert in the Park
Friday, June 14 and Saturday, June 15
5:00 pm and 7:00 pm
Hunter’s Glen Park. 1340 Independence Blvd. Missouri City, TX 77489
These FREE events are wonderful family-oriented options for everyone to enjoy.
Food, Games, Rides, Give-a-ways, and a current movie.
Annual Freedom Run/Walk
Saturday, June 15 7:00 am- 10:30 am
3018 Emancipation Avenue, Houston, TX 77004
Registration is free. Corporate and team registrations are open – gather your colleagues, friends, or family members and make this an unforgettable day together.
Juneteenth Annual Music Celebration
Saturday, June 15 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
3018 Emancipation Avenue. Houston, TX
Free concert, vendors, food trucks, and good vibes. Celebrate freedom, history, and culture!
Juneteenth Celebration at Redemption Square
Saturday, June 15 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
This FREE celebration and concert commemorates the day in 1865 that Union Army Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3 in Galveston, which announced the freedom of more than 250,000 enslaved Black people in the state of Texas and honors the contributions of African Americans to American music, food, art, business, and culture.
Juneteenth Festival (Galveston)
Saturday, June 15
12:00 pm- 8:00 pm
McGuire Dent Recreation Center: 2222 28th 601 25th, Galveston, TX
Enjoy food, vendors and music celebrating the birthplace of Juneteenth. Crowning ceremony for 2024 Galveston County Lil Mr. Juneteenth Prince and Lil Ms. Juneteenth Princess and Father of the Year Award.
FREE and open to the public
Juneteenth Jubilee at Sienna
Saturday, June 15
7:00 pm- 10:00 pm
9600 Scanlan Trace, Missouri City, Texas 77459
Music, food, children’s activities and more promise an entertaining Sienna Juneteenth Jubilee. This event is FREE and open to the public.
Juneteenth – Culture Fest at Discovery Green
Sunday, June 16
2:00 pm- 9:00 pm
Avenida Plaza Houston, TX
Juneteenth marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States, and we’re coming together to commemorate this historic day. Get ready for a day filled with music, dance, food, and lots of fun! Bring your friends and family to enjoy live performances by talented artists, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and explore the rich cultural heritage of our community. Let’s honor the past, celebrate the present, and embrace a brighter future together
Free reservations on eventbrite.
Katy, Texas Juneteenth Parade and Festival
Wednesday, June 19
10:00 am (Parade) 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm (Festival)
Woodsland Park: 443 Danover Rd, Katy, TX 77494
The parade will be from 11am-12pm and the family festival will be from 12-3pm. Event includes a kids foam party, games, arts and crafts, and free food!
Juneteenth Celebration: Children’s Museum
Wednesday, June 19 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
1500 Binz St, Houston, TX 77004
Enjoy our many activities that embrace and celebrate the African American spirit, including special performances. Tickets are $19.95 for age 1+
How are you and your family celebrating Juneteenth in Houston this year?
