June 10, 2025
More than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, freedom finally reached the enslaved people of Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865. Celebrated by Black Americans for over 100 years and only recently made a public holiday, Juneteenth commemorates that historic moment, seen as an occasion to honor resilience, uplift communities, and spotlight Black culture. This year, the festivities take on added significance as the holiday marks its 160th anniversary. Ahead, discover ways to celebrate Juneteenth in NYC, from free festivals in public parks to programming at some of the city's top museums.
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