Juneteenth—a holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the US—is coming upon its second year as a federal holiday. Now that more people are aware of this important day, there are more public ways to honor Juneteenth in Birmingham—check them out.
1. Inaugural Juneteenth Freedom Celebration
The Lifting as We Climb Foundation, a nonprofit focused on uplifting underserved youth, is hosting their first festival-like event for Juneteenth. There will be something for everybody from entrepreneurs, family, students and anyone else. Check out this impressive list of activities planned:
- Food trucks.
- Tents with relators and financial advisors.
- Networking hub for the hustlers.
- Two different DJs.
- Scholarship giveaway from their Black Rhino’s mentoring program.
- Best of all—fireworks.
This is an all-day thing, so bring a tent, chairs and a cooler. Get your tickets here.
BONUS: Support Black-owned biz! 22 Black-owned restaurants in Birmingham you need to try now.
2. Backyard Boogie at BCRI
Celebrate Juneteenth in Birmingham at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. This year’s theme is “Backyard Boogie,” a tribute to the backyard BBQ traditions.
Check out BCRI’s newest mobile application, The Movement and The Color of Baseball, an exhibit featuring iconic members of the Negro Leagues. You can also participate in “Magic Walks” throughout the Civil Rights District.
3. Neptune Frost at SIDEWALK
At Sidewalk experience a moving Afrofuturist musical about an intersex African hacker, a coltan miner and the virtual marvel born. This film paints neo-colonialism in a new light through DIY aesthetics, impressive visuals and beautiful storytelling.
4. Inaugural Juneteenth Empowerment Luncheon
The first-ever Juneteenth Empowerment Luncheon is happening here in Birmingham. Enjoy a 2-hour long event of speakers, professional networking and powerful content from the community.
5. Juneteenth In The Magic City Festival
Simone’s Kitchen ATL is bringing the hottest food trucks to celebrate Juneteenth in Birmingham. This is a party of Black excellence, so enjoy freedom with African dancers, live music and a fire show.
6. Official National Juneteenth Observance Foundation of Alabama Commemoration
For bumping music, education, thrilling games and tasty food celebrate at Kelly Ingram Park. You’ll be sore from all the dancing!
7. A taste of Juneteenth
Samford students, this one is for you! Celebrate the intercultural diversity of food that will reach your body and soul cause it’s so good!
8. Black Diamond Juneteenth Festival
Learn from notable guest speakers as they talk about their life and why history is important. You’ll want to add this to your to-do list for Juneteenth in Birmingham things to do since iconic community members—including Kundai Bajikikaayi from AAAPPEP Huntsville—will be there.
9. The Inaugural Juneteenth Festival
Celebrate Juneteenth in Gardendale at the very first festival. It’s open to everybody that wants to come. There will be vendors, food and music—sounds like a party!
How will you be celebrating Juneteenth in Birmingham? Share your pics with us @BhamNow.