Juneteenth, celebrated each year on June 19, marks a pivotal moment in American history—the day when enslaved people in Texas learned they were free, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.
The movement to recognize Juneteenth as a national holiday gained significant traction through the efforts of activist Opal Lee, a resident of Fort Worth. Lee, known lovingly as the ‘Grandmother of Juneteenth,’ has played a vital role in ensuring the day is celebrated across the nation, culminating in its official recognition in 2021.
This year, the Dallas-Fort Worth region is hosting an array of events to commemorate Juneteenth, encouraging participation from community members and celebrating the history and culture of Black Americans.
**Opal’s Walk of Freedom** invites residents to join Opal Lee herself in a 2.5-mile walk around Fort Worth. This event symbolizes commitment to the cause that Lee has championed for so long. Proceeds from the walk will support the establishment of the National Juneteenth Museum in Fort Worth, focusing on education and remembrance. It will take place on June 19 at 9 a.m. at Farrington Field, 1501 North University Drive, with registration fees set at $35 for adults and $25 for children 12 and under.
Shifting gears from the walk, the **Juneteenth Fashion Show** at Legacy West celebrates 160 years of Juneteenth with fashion presented by Black American creators. This outdoor event honors the significant contributions of the Black community to the art of fashion. Scheduled for June 19, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Lexus Box Garden, attendees are encouraged to wear all white as a tribute to the past, present, and future of Black culture. Tickets are priced between $23.59 and $40.47.
For those interested in a more interactive experience, the **Juneteenth Celebration at Grandscape** offers a trivia contest focused on Black culture, followed by live music from Urban Trivia. This event is free and will take place on June 19 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Stage & Lawn, 5752 Grandscape Blvd., The Colony.
Community service is another way locals can engage with the spirit of Juneteenth at the **Fair Park Juneteenth Festival of Service**. This day-long event on June 15 will see participants come together for various service activities like street clean-ups, mural painting, and community landscaping, all while enjoying DJ performances and food from local vendors. This event at the Fair Park Automobile Building and amphitheater is free and open to the public.
Delving into music, the **Best Southwest Juneteenth Festival** will feature performances by funk group Zapp, NTense the Band, and Chadney Christle on June 14 from 6 to 10 p.m. Attendees can enjoy local vendors showcasing art and homemade goods, alongside activities for kids, including inflatable jumping balloons and face painting, at Grimes Park in DeSoto.
As part of the **Freedom Vibes Concert Series**, attendees can experience an electrifying blend of classical music with modern genres at Bass Performance Hall. The first night, June 19, will showcase Orchestra Noir, while the following night will feature performances by iconic groups, the O’Jays and the Whispers. Concerts are scheduled from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., with tickets ranging from $48.90 to $285.90.
Another musical tribute, the **Juneteenth Celebration Concert**, will take place on June 18 at 7 p.m. The Dallas College North Lake Jazz Ensemble and special guests will honor Black American musical traditions at the Dallas College North Lake Campus Performance Hall. This event is free to the public.
In Arlington, music lovers can enjoy a free concert by New Orleans funk powerhouse Big Sam’s Funky Nation on June 21 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Levitt Pavilion. Donations will support academic enrichment and mentoring programs for young Black men in Arlington, fostering community upliftment.
The month of celebrations culminates with the **36th Texas Black Invitational Rodeo**, scheduled for July 26 at the Fair Park Coliseum. This rodeo showcases the contributions of Black Americans to the Wild West, featuring competitions such as bronco and bull riding, steer roping, and barrel racing. Tickets for this exciting event range from $15 to $43.
As Dallas-Fort Worth embraces the spirit of Juneteenth, these events highlight the history, struggles, and achievements of the Black community in Texas and beyond. Engaging in these activities not only celebrates freedom but also cultivates a collective remembrance of the enduring fight for equality.
image source from：https://www.keranews.org/arts-culture/2025-05-27/where-to-celebrate-juneteenth-in-north-texas
