I want to kick off Juneteenth this year by providing you (readers) with a loose itinerary of things to do in some of the major cities around the world. But, alas, we begin with Atlanta.
Many of you who live or visited this city know all too well how culturally in tune this city is with its African-American heritage. From the stately National Museum of African American History and Culture to the bustling Atlanta History Center Juneteenth Celebration, there are plenty of places to accessorize your Juneteenth experience.
With the federal holiday (June 19th) fast approaching, we wanted to provide you with some of ATL’s Juneteenth weekend staples to ensure you have the most blackity black time.
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Visit the Atlanta History Center’s Juneteenth Celebration
On Freedom Day, every center in the United States needs to adopt curated experiences like the ones offered at ATL History Center, which features music, storytelling about the history of Juneteenth panel discussions, historical reenactments and a chance to learn more about the enslaved people, the struggle for freedom, and the eventual celebration of the emancipation proclamation.
Find more information about the Juneteenth Events
Attend the Juneteenth Black History Parade and Music Festival
The Juneteenth Atlanta Parade and Music Festival is an annual event in Atlanta that celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. The annual Juneteenth parade features live music from some of the most iconic entertainers, food trucks/food vendors, and vendors offering a variety of goods.
Think Black Music Month X 10. This national holiday is an excellent opportunity to celebrate, reflect, and honor the resilience and strength of the African American community.
Juneteenth Atlanta 5K Freedom Run
An annual celebration of black liberation is at the forefront of this run at Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta. The Juneteenth Atlanta 5K Freedom Run is a yearly event celebrating Juneteenth with a 5K run for human rights fundraising.
The event promotes social justice, judicial reform, and world peace. The run is open to all. Registration is $30 (until May 31st) and offers an opportunity to celebrate Juneteenth through physical activity and community involvement.
Don’t Get Me Rowdy Atlanta Battles
This event takes live entertainment and black innovation to the next level making your weekend of engagement all the more fun. Don’t Get Me Rowdy Atlanta Battles is a Juneteenth event that features marching band and majorette performance parade battles.
Many of the Juneteenth celebrations recognizing the holiday are successful due to the support received by you all attending the festivities. For example, you support high school marching bands when you attend the battle.
They aim to raise funds for cash awards for the top four placements and trophies for all entries. So, add this to your list of activities to do in Atlanta.
World’s Best Whip
In celebration of Juneteenth, the Atlanta World’s Best Whip is a competition during the Juneteenth celebration in Atlanta. The competition is open to car enthusiasts and features a parade of the best cars, with cash and trophy prizes for the top performers.
Apart from the cultural festival on Juneteenth weekend, it is a unique opportunity to showcase the best cars and celebrate Juneteenth with a fun and exciting event.
Bridging the Continental Divide
This Juneteenth celebration reognizing the humanitarian challenges within African culture and the Eastern Sub-Continental Divide is imperative to add to your list of family activities.
It is an opportunity to reflect on the significance of Juneteenth and explore ways to promote social justice and unity within the African American community.
Drum Circle
Be prepared for your ears and eyes to enjoy some of the most talented African drummers from around the world. Black communities can enjoy this event and culture experience as it represents a tribute to African American ancestors who brought the drum to the United States, hinting at what the magic of black culture contributes to our society.
The event aims to claim the world record for an African drum circle and is open to families, groups, and organizations. It is an opportunity to celebrate Juneteenth through music and honor the cultural significance of the drum in African American history.
Day-Long Activities to Bring in The Culture of Juneteenth
Juneteenth is a time to celebrate freedom, reflect on the past, and honor the resilience and strength of the African American community. With various events and activities taking place throughout the day, there are many opportunities to bring in the culture of Juneteenth and celebrate this important day with family and friends.
From parades and festivals to live performances by musical artists, panel discussions, and supporting black-owned businesses, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So if you live in the Atlanta area or plan on visiting for Juneteenth National Independence Day, mark your calendars and get ready to join in the festivities to celebrate Juneteenth and the rich history and culture of the African American community.
