Looking for ways to celebrate Juneteenth? Here are events happening around North Texas
NORTH TEXAS – Several events are taking place across Dallas-Fort Worth in celebration of Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day.
The national holiday, observed on June 19, didn't become federally recognized until 2021, when President Biden signed legislation that added it to the government holiday calendar.
Fort Worth native Opal Lee, also known as the Grandmother of Juneteenth, was recently recognized with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her efforts in establishing Juneteenth as a national holiday.
If you're looking to celebrate, here are some Juneteenth events happening around Dallas-Fort Worth.
Wednesday, June 19
Opal's Walk For Freedom
9 a.m.
African American Museum of Dallas
- The walk, hosted by the Opal Lee, is 2.5 miles long, to recognize the 2.5 years it took for the news and enforcement of freedom to reach the enslaved people in Texas. Find more information here.
Juneteenth Free Admission Day
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum
- The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum is offering free tickets for Juneteenth. Although admission is free, you still need a ticket. Find more information here.
Saturday, June 22
Little Elm Juneteenth - Freedom Walk
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
The Lawn at the Lakefront
- The annual Freedom Walk in Little Elm will have live music, speakers and a brunch for those who attend. Ticket prices vary. Find more information here.
Mesquite Juneteenth Festival & Celebration
2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Paschall Park
- The fifth annual festival will have live music and will be an immersive experience, organizers say. Ticket prices vary. Find more information here.
Juneteenth at the Spellman
4 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Spellman Amphitheater, Forney
- The City of Forney's Juneteenth event, in partnership with the Xi Delta Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., will feature live music, food trucks and other vendors. The event is free, but organizers ask people who plan on attending to register in advance. Find more information here.
