Now, this chapter in American history is commemorated nationwide. It stands as a symbol of liberation, marks the end of one of the darkest chapters in American history and serves as a powerful reminder of the persistent struggle for racial justice.
Check out our list of events in and around Dallas to celebrate Juneteenth with friends and family.
June 13–19
Various events at African American Museum3536 Grand Ave.
In recognition of Juneteenth, the African American Museum in Fair Park has unveiled a diverse lineup of events and exhibitions centered on African culture this summer. Through thought-provoking exhibitions, educational presentations and engaging activities, visitors will have the opportunity to reflect on the historical importance of the event and its lasting cultural impact.
One of the most anticipated highlights of the summer is the North American debut of the breathtaking Southern African art exhibition If You Look Hard Enough, You Can See Our Future. This showcase promises to immerse visitors in the rich cultural heritage and artistic expressions of southern Africa. To see the complete list of events and their ticket prices, visit the African American Museum website at aamdallas.org.
June 14–25
Lewisville Grand Theater100 N. Charles St., Lewisville
The Lewisville Grand Theater rolled out its list of events this month, and three of them are in celebration of Juneteenth.
The City Speaker Series continues its mission to foster meaningful conversations with an upcoming presentation by historian Peniel Joseph, a leading expert on race and democracy, who will discuss his groundbreaking book The Third Reconstruction. Joseph presents a compelling and personal perspective on recent history, including the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020.
The Orchestra of New Spain will celebrate the Texas roots of Juneteenth for the third year with a range of classical music and songs by Black composers. The program will include works by Dallas composer Quinn Mason as well as Scott Joplin, Ulysses Kay, John Carter and more. Additionally, to highlight the rich vocal tradition of the Black community, the orchestra will present celebrated soprano and versatile Dallas chorus master Alfrelynn Roberts for several traditional spirituals.
The third event, on June 16, will include a dance group performance and music by two local bands, The Don Diego Band and Fingerprints. The free event will take place in Wayne Ferguson Plaza.
June 16
Dallas Southern Pride Unity WeekendVarious locations
Dallas Southern Pride is truly proud to present the 2023 Juneteenth Unity Weekend Celebration, a six-day event dedicated to fostering awareness of the frequently overlooked social justice and political challenges faced by Black communities. Juneteenth Unity Weekend Celebration is a family-oriented celebration with events and programming for the entire community.
A tradition in the city of Dallas during Pride Month since 2008, the Juneteenth Unity Weekend Celebration in 2023 will establish a new tradition as the official party for Black Pride Weekend. More than 10,000 people are expected to attend the series of events around Dallas this week.
These events will include a festival, pool party, health equity forum and the annual Kirk Myers-Hill Signature Brunch event. The late Myers-Hill was the former president of Dallas Southern Pride. Supahbadd and KenTheMan are set to headline the festival, and tickets for all events throughout the week can be found on the website dallassouthernpride.com.
June 17
Garland Juneteenth CelebrationAudubon Park, 550 W. Oakes Road
2–5 p.m.
The city of Garland will host its annual Juneteenth event by inviting residents and visitors to Audubon Park for a celebration of freedom and unity. The afternoon will be filled with dance, inspirational speakers and live music. Attendees can treat themselves to the food trucks and explore a specially curated children's activity area.
Dallas Cowboys Juneteenth Celebration
1 AT&T Way Arlington
4 –8 p.m.
The Cowboys are asking fans to join them for the second annual Dallas Cowboys Juneteenth Celebration. Head to the Miller Lite House at AT&T Stadium to enjoy live entertainment, play lawn games and shop with over a dozen local Black-owned businesses. The Dallas Cowboys Rhythm & Blue team will hit the stage along with Emmy-nominated artist and poet Black Caesar. The event and parking are both free.
Galleria Dallas
13350 Dallas Parkway
10 a.m.
Galleria Dallas is marking the occasion of Juneteenth by involving the community with the help of artist Sam Lao. The shopping center has commissioned Lao to design a special T-shirt, which will be available at no cost starting at 10 a.m., June 17, while supplies last. Lao will be present at the event, distributing the shirts for the first hour. The artist gained recognition first as a hip-hop artist and later as a textile artist — but has always been known for her distinctive style. Lao encourages viewers to observe her installations and engage with them physically. This approach stems from her own experiences as a youth, when she was often confronted for getting too close to artworks in museums. In addition to the limited-edition T-shirt, Lao will present a complimentary art installation as part of Galleria Dallas' Artist Collective on Level 1 near Bachendorf's. Visitors can see Lao's work until July 4.
June 18
Dallas Juneteenth Soul Food Festival816 Montgomery St.
11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Interested in some authentic soul food on Juneteenth? The Soul Food Festival at Lofty Spaces is the place to be. As you arrive, you'll be greeted by the aromas of high-energy dishes prepared with love. Show up with an empty stomach and grab a couple of plates to go. Entrance is free.
Inaugural Juneteenth on Main Block Party in Deep Ellum
Noon – 6 p.m.
Deep Ellum is gearing up for an exceptional celebration of Black music and culture with its upcoming Juneteenth Block Party. As part of the district's ongoing 150th-anniversary festivities, the Deep Ellum Foundation and Deep Ellum Cultural District are hosting this event on Main Street between Good-Latimer and Crowdus.
The Block Party will offer a lineup of local and national artists, showcasing the influence of African Americans on the music scene. R&B sensation Dru Hill, celebrating their own 25th anniversary, will headline the concert, reuniting all six former members for an unforgettable performance of their greatest hits. They will be joined by acts including Jess Garland, Dezi 5, Cure for Paranoia, Jada Arnell, Ei8th Notes Band and Jayson Lyric, with DJ Lex in the Box providing infectious beats throughout the day.
In addition to the musical extravaganza, the Juneteenth Block Party will host over 25 Black-owned business vendors, allowing attendees to support local entrepreneurs and enjoy diverse culinary delights and unique merchandise. A special Black history exhibition will also be open to the public, showcasing the invaluable contributions of Black Americans to the nation's history and culture.
June 19
Double D’s First Juneteenth House Party1404 N. Riverfront Blvd.
4–10 p.m.
Double D's will host its inaugural Juneteenth House Party, an event that promises to honor freedom, community and the spirit of summer. The Juneteenth House Party reflects the core values of Double D's, encapsulating the principles of "Always Celebrate," "All Are Welcome," and "All the Love."
The party will shine a spotlight on Black-owned spirits brands, featuring Uncle Nearest Whiskey, Tequila With Friends and General Order No. 3 Vodka. The event will also include live DJ performances and various vendors, showcasing local talent and entrepreneurship. Double D's will collaborate with Patrick Averhart of the United Peoples Coalition, a grassroots organization based in Dallas that advocates the uplifting of disenfranchised individuals within communities.
June 24
Art Cult Polyphonic Featuring S-Ankh Rasa and Mo' Music723 Fort Worth Ave.
8–10 p.m.
The Polyphonic Series hosted by ArtstillerySpaces is set to show off the skills of North Texas artists in an intimate and engaging setting. Attendees can expect an evening of music, storytelling and insight into the world of these performers. Taking center stage this month is S-Ankh Rasa's super band, a collective of accomplished musicians. Known for erasing the boundaries between musical styles, S-Ankh leads the ensemble in creating a seamless flow of African-based music that resonates with various cultures.
ArtsillerySpaces will also host HeartBeat Spoken Word & Music Series on June 29. This series will honor both Pride and Juneteenth by celebrating the theme of freedom. Expect a fusion of art and activism as performers use their platform to shed light on important issues and push boundaries. Whether it's poetry, music, dance or any other form of expression, this event seeks an unforgettable and thought-provoking experience. Both events have a choose-your-price option at the door, or you can roll the dice and see which price you land on.
