This Thursday marks an important occasion across Central Texas as communities come together to honor Juneteenth, the day when enslaved individuals in Texas learned of their freedom.
The significance of June 19, 1865, cannot be overstated, as it was on this day that Union Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston to announce that all enslaved people were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.
In recognition of this pivotal moment in American history, various events are planned throughout the region, each celebrating freedom and the enduring spirit of the African American community.
One of the highlights of the day will be the Central Texas Juneteenth Parade & Festival, taking place at Rosewood Park, located at 2300 Rosewood Ave., Austin, TX.
From 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., attendees can expect a lively atmosphere filled with floats, entertainment, and diverse food offerings.
The festivities will extend into the afternoon and evening at both Rosewood Park and Boggy Creek Park, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display at 9 p.m.
Another poignant gathering will occur at the George Washington Carver Museum, situated at 1165 Angelina St, where a Juneteenth Remembrance Ceremony is scheduled from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
This ceremony aims to honor the ancestors and foster a spirit of solidarity within the community.
In Georgetown, the Citizens Memorial Cemetery, located at 251 Memorial Drive, will host a dedication and historical marker unveiling at 10 a.m.
This event recognizes the historically African American and Hispanic cemetery, highlighting its importance within local history.
For those looking for an evening of music and culture, the event “Hella Free: The Juneteenth Function” at Empire Control Room, located at 606 E. 7th Street in Austin, will take place from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Organized by Cat Records and the Austin Justice Coalition, this free event promises a lively atmosphere filled with music and entertainment.
Another musical gathering, “Together Vol 5: another Juneteenth House Music Boogie,” will be held at Central Machine Works Brewery & Beer Hall at 4824 E Cesar Chavez St, from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m.
House music lovers can enjoy performances by renowned DJs, including DJ Shani, Matthieu Robert, and Zero G, with no cover charge required.
Additionally, Hotel Vegas and The Volstead Lounge at 1502 E 6th Street will kick off their Juneteenth Celebration at 6 p.m.
The lineup features local artists including Nubia Emmon, Geto Gala, The Teeta, Chakeeta B, and Kydd Jones, showcasing a diverse range of musical talent.
Juneteenth, deriving its name from combining June and nineteenth, serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality and justice, embodying the spirit of resilience.
Although President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation freed enslaved individuals in 1863, it wasn’t until 1865 that the message reached Texas, where some enslaved people continued to work under the old regime.
Laura Smalley, who was freed from a plantation near Bellville, Texas, recounted her experience in a 1941 interview, stating that many were not informed of their freedom until six months later, sparking the celebration of this crucial date.
Granger’s General Order No. 3 declared, “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free…”
This profound announcement heralded a new chapter of freedom and dignity for countless individuals.
Slavery was ultimately abolished six months later when Georgia ratified the 13th Amendment, laying a foundation for the annual celebrations that would follow.
Festivities began in Galveston in the year following Granger’s announcement and have steadily evolved into a global observance, comprising concerts, parades, and readings of the Emancipation Proclamation.
As Central Texas prepares to reflect on and celebrate this historic event, the community’s commitment to honoring their past while looking forward to a future of equality remains unwavering.
Through shared experiences, education, and cultural expressions, the legacy of Juneteenth continues to inspire generations.
image source from：https://www.fox7austin.com/news/juneteenth-2025-austin-events
