Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day, occurs annually on June 19. It is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.
Juneteenth’s commemoration is on the anniversary date of June 19, 1865, when Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger led a force of soldiers to Galveston, Texas, to deliver General Order No. 3. This message stated that the war was over, the Union had won, and it had the manpower to enforce the end of slavery.
The announcement came two months after the effective conclusion of the Civil War and more than two years since President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.
This is why we celebrate Juneteenth, as it honors the day all of the enslaved were legally freed.
Operation Be You, 1st Annual Miss & Miss Jr. Juneteenth Pageant, 3 – 6 p.m., June 14, Downtown Central Library: Farish Theater, 140 E. Main St.: This inaugural event celebrates the brilliance, leadership, and cultural pride of Black girls and teens in Lexington. The pageant will feature cultural attire, talent, and community impact segments, providing a platform for contestants to showcase their heritage, creativity, and voice. The event emphasizes personal growth, self‑esteem, and civic engagement.
Juneteenth Jubilee: Presented by African Cemetery No. 2, 7 – 8 p.m., June 17, African Cemetery No. 2, 419 E. Seventh St.: This year’s program will explore “Crossroads in History: Campfire Stories of United States Colored Soldiers.”
“A Sense of Place” Juneteenth Celebration, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., June 19, New Vine Baptist Church, 4339 New Vine Ln: A special celebration honoring freedom and community in Ft. Spring, one of Lexington’s historic Black hamlets, featuring live music, cultural performances, food, and storytelling that highlights the community’s history and resilience.
I Am a Descendant of Nation Builders: A Juneteenth Youth Celebration, 1 – 3 p.m., June 19, The Historic Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center, 300 E. Third St.: A collaboration between Operation Be You, Inc. and the I Was Here Project. Young people bring history to life through art, culture, and immersive storytelling, honoring shared ancestry and uplifting the legacy of the Nation Builders who shaped America.
“Say It Loud” Juneteenth Festival, Noon – 8 p.m. June 19, The Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center, 300 E. Third St.: The day begins with a Vendor Fair at noon, featuring local entrepreneurs and food trucks offering diverse culinary options for families and neighbors. At 1 p.m., youth programs Alpha League and I Was Here will lead presentations centered on youth voices and leadership. At 6 p.m., the community is invited to enjoy live performances by a national recording artist, dancers, and interactive celebrations, including opportunities for audience participation.
The Kentucky US Freedmen Coalition: Juneteenth Celebration, Noon – 8 p.m., June 20, Charles Young Park,540 E. Third St.: This event features free food, gospel music, and hip-hop and R&B performances. In partnership with Project Ricochet, it marks the 10th year of the Coalition’s Juneteenth celebration, and the 6th year of its partnership with the City.
SoulFeast: SoulTeenth Fest, 2 – 9 p.m., June 20, Gatton Park, 795 Manchester St.: Celebrate Juneteenth in the heart of downtown with live performances, cooking demonstrations, local vendors, art, crafts and activities for all ages. This year’s event will feature an unveiling of a marker honoring the legacy of R.C.O. Benjamin.
