NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Several events and ceremonies are planned across Middle Tennessee to celebrate the Juneteenth holiday.
The U.S. will observe Juneteenth on Thursday, June 19. The origin of Juneteenth celebrations began after enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned they had been freed — two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.
National parks will be free to enter on Thursday: Here’s why
In 2021, former President Joe Biden designated Juneteenth a federal holiday. It later became a paid state holiday in 2023 after the passage of HB 0317 by the Tennessee House of Representatives.
For those looking for ways to celebrate the holiday, there are several events planned across Middle Tennessee.
All Week
Juneteenth Black Restaurant Week
Nearly 20 African-American owned restaurants across Middle Tennessee are participating in the annual Juneteenth Restaurant Week, which began June 12 and lasts until June 22. During the 10-day event, participating restaurants will offer special meal deals to commemorate the significance of Juneteenth.
Thursday, June 19
Juneteenth615 at Fort Negley
The Juneteenth615 Celebration has been a tradition in Nashville since 2018. Attendees can enjoy music, food, games, family-friendly activities and a firework display. The free event will take place at Fort Negley from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 19.
Tennessee State Museum Juneteenth Celebration
A guide to what the Juneteenth holiday is and how to celebrate it
Juneteenth at the National Museum of African America Music
The National Museum of African American Music’s annual Juneteenth Community Day will explore African American musical traditions. According to the museum, guests will get the opportunity to enjoy interactive exhibits and live performances. Doors will open at 10 a.m. for the free event.
Day of Celebration at the McLemore House
The African American Heritage Society of Williamson County is inviting everyone to celebrate “freedom, community, and our shared heritage” at this year’s Juneteenth festival. The festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the historic McLemore House on Thursday, June 19…