Photography by Tom Incrocci, courtesy of the Missouri Botanical Garden
George Washington Carver statue surrounded by summer plantings in the Carver Garden.
Each year on the 19th of June, we celebrate the end of legal slavery in the United States. Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day and Freedom Day, refers to the day in 1865 when the Army told the enslaved people of Galveston, Texas, of their emancipation—two years after the Emancipation Proclamation officially made it law. Last year, President Joe Biden officially declared it a federal holiday. In St. Louis, there are lots of ways to celebrate. Here are just seven, though there are many other ways to celebrate across the region.
Missouri Botanical Garden | June 19
On Sunday, the Missouri Botanical Garden is offering free admission for all in honor of Juneteenth. An interpretive guide will also walk visitors through African Americans' significant contributions to botanical science. Visitors to the Children’s Garden will receive an okra plant starter.
Delmar Main Street | June 18
Delmar Main Street, the organization dedicated to the revitalization of Delmar from city limits to Taylor Avenue, is hosting its inaugural Juneteenth Festival. The day begins with a Maker’s Market and Drum Warriors performance. Later in the afternoon, stop by the Health and Wellness Gathering. Wrap up the day at the Happy Hour Block Party. See the website for details. 9 a.m.–8 p.m.
Grand Center | June 19
In Midtown, arts organizations are pulling together for a free family day to celebrate Juneteenth and Father’s Day. Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, and The Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Galleries will host the St. Louis Kettle Corn Truck, EyeSeeMe Book Store, free family portraits with Virginia Harold, storytelling, music, dance, and more. Check the website for details. Noon–3 p.m.
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra | June 19
For the second year running, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is celebrating Juneteenth. The orchestra’s musicians will come together with vocalists from the SLSO IN UNISON chorus and the IN UNISON scholars at Greater Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church. Hear traditional spiritual music, work by Florence Price, and historical information about the holiday. Free. 2 p.m.
Juneteenth Celebration and Resource Fair | June 18
On Saturday in Old North, local organizations and small businesses will come together to connect community members with community resources. Both Black and African communities will be represented through art, food, vendors, performances, storytelling, and music. The event features the St. Louis–based handmade fashion brand Tribe 228, which features patterns and clothing made by artisans in Togo.
Free Dome | June 19
The Saint Louis African American Artifacts Festival and Bazaar (Saint LAA FaB) hosts its inaugural Juneteenth celebration, known as “Free-Dome.” Enjoy fare from food trucks and a selective sampling of vendors, as well as live art, dance and more. Check social media for updates on the musical lineup. Fairground Park. 1–7 p.m.
Missouri Historical Society | June 16–18
The Missouri Historical Society is hosting a series of events, including a keynote from Bill Doggett and a performance by the Community Gospel Choir of St. Louis on Thursday, the Juneteenth Storytelling and Craft Workshop on Friday, and the 11-mile Juneteenth Community Ride and post-event block party (in partnership with Trailnet and 4theVille) on Saturday. MHS is also partnering with The Collective STL to host Just Breathe STL on Wednesdays from June 22 through July 13. Click here to read more.
