The holiday Juneteenth commemorates and celebrates the day enslaved people in Texas finally got the news that they'd been freed by the Emancipation Proclamation. They heard this news on June 19, 1865, more than two years after the proclamation outlawing slavery was issued.
Seattle-area events invite families to learn about and celebrate Juneteenth, a day meant to signify freedom from slavery and to lift up the African-American community and its cultural traditions.
In-person and virtual Juneteenth events:
Through Wednesday, June 22: MOHAI hosts Mr. Delbert Richardson's "The Unspoken Truths", a traveling exhibit in honor of Juneteenth. Reserve your spot for this, and hear his stories honoring the official emancipation of those enslaved on Saturday, June 18. Book tickets online.
Saturday–Sunday, June 11–12: Pick up a free Juneteenth craft kit from the Northwest African American Museum on Saturday, then tune in during NAAM's monthly virtual story time on Sunday. This edition features Seattle Sounders legend Steve Zakuani.
Wednesday, June 15: Kick off your Juneteenth celebrations at a soccer-focused Youth Night with the Sounders FC involving food, soccer activities and more.
Friday, June 17: Turn up at Issaquah's Grub and Groove Juneteenth event to grab dinner and enjoy free entertainment.
Friday–Sunday, June 17–19: Celebrate African-American culture and community through art, dance and music at Festival Sundiata, back in person at Seattle Center.
Saturday, June 18: Support Black-owned businesses and enjoy live music, food trucks and inflatables for the kids at Auburn's Les Gove Park.
Saturday, June 18: Take in a free concert by jazz guitarist Michael Powers in person or virtually at this annual Kent event aimed at building a sense of community among African Americans in South King County.
Saturday, June 18: Head over to Pier 62 and join LANGSTON, the Seattle-based Black arts and culture group, for a family-friendly afternoon to honor Black excellence with a pop-up art gallery, live performances and food trucks.
Saturday, June 18: Be inspired by keynote speakers and take in live performances at Tukwila's celebration of the African American community.
Sunday, June 19: It Takes a Village Juneteenth Festival celebrates the Black community, seeks to share resources and services, and aims to promote the health and power of those with the least access to it.
Sunday, June 19: Bring the family to downtown Olympia for a Juneteenth Celebration Festival filled with live music, arts performances and delicious eats.
Sunday, June 19: Focus on your health and wellness this Juneteenth. Atlantic Street Center's celebration will feature community resources, as well as entertainment and food.
Sunday, June 19: Enjoy complimentary skate rental and lace-up at NAAM's Skate to Freedom Party. Bring the whole family to Judkins Park in Seattle for this fun community event.
Sunday, June 19: Take a cultural journey through music at a free concert spanning genres from spirituals to gospel, jazz, R&B and hip hop. Register for free tickets.
Sunday, June 19: Enjoy a fee-free day in one of Washington's amazing state parks, perhaps considering how freedom is fundamental to our human existence.
Sunday, June 19: Celebrate Dad and Juneteenth together at this event in Edmonds, featuring free fun and food for the whole family.
