PHOTOS: Here's how Americans are celebrating Juneteenth in cities around the US
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- President Joe Biden signed a bill last year that sets June 19 as a federal holiday.
- Celebrations took place around the country on June 19 in many US cities and towns, paying tribute to Black culture.
- The origins of Juneteenth started in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865.
Juneteenth is the country's newest federal holiday, and on Sunday, many Black Americans are celebrating with festivals, food, and parades.
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. While many Black Americans already acknowledged this historic date, President Joe Biden signed a bill last year that sets June 19 as a federal holiday.
The origins of Juneteenth started in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865, when Union Army general Gordon Granger declared that the enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas, were freed by executive decree. Shortly after, celebrations took place where it was safe, such as in Black churches, according to High Country News.
Around the US, many cities have opted in to celebrate Juneteenth. Here are celebrations in several cities around the US that are observing Juneteenth.
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Historically, Juneteenth was originally celebrated in churches. Church goers are commemorating Juneteenth in their worship services. Many churches, such as the Reedy Chapel in Galveston, are hosting services and block parties in observation.
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Thousands are taking to the streets of Atlanta in celebration of Juneteenth. The Juneteenth Atlanta Parade & Music Festival pays homage to Black culture.
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Broadway is celebrating Juneteenth at Times Square with a free 90-minute concert. This celebration is in partnership with The Broadway League's Black to Broadway initiative. The event will feature cast members from some of Broadway's iconic shows going on right now.
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On Sunday, Afropunk is bringing out local acts in partnership with Target. Black creatives will perform on The Black Beyond Measure Stage at Sheridan Memorial Park.
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Chicago is celebrating Juneteenth with some delicious food. The city is hosting its site of the 10th annual Juneteenth Celebration by lighting the grill and celebrating the community.