Juneteenth is approaching, and there are many events in the Houston area to celebrate this special holiday.
Juneteenth is celebrated every year on June 19, the day African-American slaves in Galveston, Texas, were told in 1865 that they had been freed, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation banned slavery and two months after the Civil War ended in April 1865.
As of 2021, Juneteenth is a national holidayand has been celebrated by Houstonians for decades. Its proximity to Galveston makes it a special place for those celebrating the day the last slaves were freed.
On Saturday, Rep. Charlene Ward Johnson hosted the 2026 Acres Homes Juneteenth Parade. The celebration began at the Acres Homes Multi-Service Center and ended on Dolly Wright Boulevard.
Actor Ward Johnson hosted the 2026 Acres Homes Juneteenth Show on Saturday, June 13, 2026.
See below for a list of events throughout Southeast Texas that commemorate Juneteenth.
Juneteenth Festival 161: Home Base
Date: June 17
The cultural celebration, hosted by the Houston Freedmen’s Town Conservancy, will include live performances (including a talent show), visual arts, and a community gathering to honor 161 years of freedom and resiliency. This event is free to attend.
Heritage Harmonies: A Juneteenth Celebration of African American Music
Dates: June 18, 25, 27, 30
Hosted by the Freedmen’s City Museums of Houston, this event honors the physical and sonic history of our community through four amazing local musical icons: Dr. Anne Lundy, Ms. Ruth Stewart, Dr. Gloria Harrison Quinlan, and Ms. Ina Zellers. Events on the above dates are free, but private tours of the museum are available.
Juneteenth: Reunion 2026
Date: June 19
Hosted by the Emancipation Park Conservancy, there will be live performances featuring national artists across the R&B, Gospel, Southern Soul, Hip Hop, Jazz, and more, providing a soundtrack that reflects the richness and diversity of our culture. This event is free to attend.
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Juneteenth Culture Festival at Miller Outdoor Theater
Date: June 19
Featuring the legendary labyrinthine “The Music is Forever” and Chanté Moore’s incomparable song, the Juneteenth Cultural Festival is a spirited celebration of freedom, culture and timeless sound, blending the heart of classic soul with the smoothness of R.&B and the rich grooves of funk and neo-soul for an unforgettable night of love, heritage and soul-stirring music. There will also be a pop-up art gallery available. This event is free to attend.
Juneteenth celebration at Redemption Square
Date: June 19
Redemption Square hosts an evening of music, guest speakers, food trucks, games and more. Food vendors and local artisans will also be present. Attendance at this event is free, but reservations are recommended.
2026 Juneteenth Trail Ride and Parade hosted by the Black Cowboy Museum
Date: June 19
Area cycling associations, local businesses, car clubs and African American churches will participate in a three-hour ride and parade, starting at the proposed new location of the Black Cowboy Museum at 630 Charlie Roberts Lane, Kendleton, Texas. The trip will start at 9 am
Juneteenth with friends of The Sugar Land 95
Date: June 19
Friends of Sugar Land 95 will celebrate Juneteenth and honor the life and legacy of Sugar Land 95. There will be a documentary screening, commemorative flag placement and DNA kits.
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