Banks and government offices are closed today in observance of the Juneteenth holiday. On this day in history, June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of slavery. The news was delivered more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. The Biden administration declared Juneteenth a federal holiday.
People across Georgia will celebrate the significance of this date with cookouts and festivals. In downtown Athens, residents and visitors can enjoy a day of music, storytelling, history and family-friendly activities honoring freedom and African American culture.
Athens Juneteenth Celebration & Festival
The free Athens Juneteenth Celebration & Festival begins at 10:30 a.m. with a march from Hot Corner, Athens’ historic Black business district, to City Hall. A flag-raising ceremony will follow at 11 a.m., marking the official start of the festivities.
From 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., attendees can enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, a community market, educational exhibits and activities for children. A Kids Zone featuring bouncy houses and interactive activities will provide entertainment for younger attendees, while local history exhibits and community organizations will offer opportunities to learn more about Athens’ rich African American heritage.
The event will also feature a Black Elected Leaders Honorary Signature Ceremony at 1 p.m., recognizing the contributions of Black public servants and leaders.
A diverse lineup of performers is scheduled throughout the day. Musical guests include Blacknerdninja, Ishues, T I K I C A, Vernon Thornsberry with John Fernandes and Bill Oglesby, and Dr. Nkululeko “Freedom” Zungu. Spoken-word artists Life the Griot and Celest Divine will also take the stage.
Community and faith leaders will share remarks during the celebration, including Pastor Chekibe Holman of First AME Church and Rev. Dr. Allison M. Henderson-Brooks of Hill First Baptist Church. Featured speakers include Hattie Thomas Whitehead, Hope Iglehart and Bria Smith.
The event is hosted by L.G. Heart of the City and organized by Historic Athens with funding support from the Athens-Clarke County government.
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