Juneteenth National Independence Day, celebrated on June 19th, is the day to commemorate the end of enslavement in the United States.
“Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. It is also often observed for celebrating African-American culture. Originating in Galveston, Texas, it has been celebrated annually on June 19 in various parts of the United States since 1865.”
Source: Wikipedia
Historic Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta, Georgia is hosting tours and free programs to celebrate on Saturday, June 17th. Tours are free but signups are required.
Don't miss Oakland Cemetery's annual Juneteenth Celebration this Saturday, June 17, from 10:30 a.m. to
1 p.m. This free, family-friendly event will feature free tours, live music, storytelling, kids' crafts, and lots more!
Photo credit: Oakland Cemetery
Mark your calendars and make plans to head to historic Oakland Cemetery on June 17 for a FREE celebration for the whole family.
This year’s Juneteenth celebration focuses on the importance of Juneteenth, the accomplishments of African Americans, and the economic reconstruction of the African American community after gaining freedom and as many gained social mobility.
This year’s celebration also sets the tone for future Juneteenth celebrations to grow and become a staple community event, not only in the Grant Park neighborhood but throughout Atlanta.
The event will feature
- Live Music
- Food vendors
- Children’s Storytelling
- Free Tours
- Vendor Market
- Libations Ceremony
- & More
Schedule of Events
Tours
Tours are free but you’ll need to sign up to save your spot. Tour signups are available on Eventbrite and on-site.
In celebration of Juneteenth 2023, Historic Oakland Foundation is proud to debut a new walking tour focused on the lives of African Americans after gaining freedom and as they work toward economic and social development. This Reconstruction Era tour of the African American Burial Grounds includes the stories of African Americans who reconstructed their lives after emancipation and went on to shape Atlanta’s rich legacy of African American culture and achievement. You’ll hear from actors portraying several residents as they share their stories and journey as they navigated new times. Each tour lasts approximately 40 minutes.
10:30 a.m.
11:30 a.m
Noon
12:30 p.m.
1 p.m.
Tickets here.
Storytelling
10:30 and 11:30
Storyteller LaDoris Bias Davis will present Gullah Geechee tales for all ages.
Libation Ceremony and Performance
11:00 a.m.
The Big Bethel AME Heaven Bound Choir will perform a libation ceremony at the Cemetery’s historic African American Burial Grounds at 11:00 a.m. followed by a short performance. A libations ceremony is a pouring as a way to honor one’s ancestors.
Live Music by Veronika Jackson
Veronika Jackson is a singer/songwriter whose compelling music draws inspiration from both blues heritage and the 1960s folk music movement. She performs at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m.
Happening Throughout the Day
- DJ
- Vendor Market
- Arts & Crafts and Snacks for Kids
- Dobie’s Catering Food Truck
- African American Burial Grounds Cell Phone Tour
Join us for this amazing celebration. We can't want to see you there.
Photo credit: Oakland Cemetery
