This city doesn’t do holidays half-a**. We light up the sky for 4th of July, don’ our greens for St. Patrick’s Day—and mark Juneteenth in Memphis with moments that our ancestors could only dream of.
This is a commemoration honoring the liberation of the people that have largely contributed to the creation of culture across our city. This is Juneteenth in Memphis.
On June 19, 1865 in Galveston, TX, Major General Gordon Granger demanded the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.
It should also be mentioned that General Order Number 3 was issued TWO WHOLE YEARS after the Emancipation Proclamation had been put into place.
Even though many masters weren’t quick to abide by their new laws, for the first time in history, the Black community had a date that was theirs.
Despite the fears, frustrations, and further discrimination that would be felt, the last of our ancestors were given their golden ticket to freedom on Juneteeenth—and if that doesn't call for a celebration, we don't know what would.
Long before it was declared a federal holiday in 2021, local organizations commemorated the occasion with special gatherings and celebrations; providing spaces to boast all facets of Blackness, in light of where Black America has been and where it’s going.
The same will ring true in 2025.
How will you celebrate Juneteenth in Memphis?
Thanks to Telisa Franklin—Memphis Juneteenth is hosting the 33rd annual Juneteenth Festival June 5th and 6th in honor of those who fought for our freedom.
Classical Melodies, Inc. is turning up the culture for Juneteenth with a special benefit concert featuring outstanding creative performances that honor heritage and the power of the arts. Every ticket supports music education and opportunities for the next generation of artists.
The Four Way Restaurant is bringing the celebration to Memphis this Juneteenth with a FREE community festival packed with live performances, wellness activations, farmers markets, food, and giveaways. Bring your lawn chairs and good vibes.
Memphis’ beloved Juneteenth celebration is back for its 33rd year at historic Douglass Park with three days of pure fun, kicking off with Youth Day, continuing with Freedom Day, and closing with Festival Day. The UTURN Band will be performing along with a stacked lineup of other artists.
TappedIN is back with their 3rd Annual Juneteenth Summer Classic! Chicago’s own G Herbo headlines alongside a stacked lineup of Memphis artists for a full mini-festival takeover of Minglewood Hall.
There are so many Juneteenth events happening all around town at our Memphis Public Libraries. From the Cordova Library’s 4th Annual Juneteenth Fest to Orange Mound Library’s Juneteenth Shabach: A Family Game, there’s so much to do to celebrate freedom.
Back again for the second year, Umami Amora: The Renaissance brings together seven phenomenal Black chefs for an immersive seven-course Juneteenth celebration. Inspired by the Harlem Renaissance and Memphis’ rich culture, the evening weaves together food, music, storytelling, and community into one unforgettable night.
Celebrate Juneteenth Community Day with free museum admission and a focus on health equity.
The Jukewell Sessions are back and reimagined for Juneteenth! Step into an immersive juke joint experience featuring live music, curated art installations, and DJ sets from SOLA, DJ Avious, and 2Keys.
AINT’s Juneteenth block party is back, and this year, they’re rolling out the big screen! Expect short films, food, games, and all the good vibes. Filmmakers, submit your shorts for a chance to be featured.
Discover the incredible Black history hiding in plain sight at Memphis’ most historic cemetery! Join Elmwood Cemetery for a Juneteenth guided walking tour led by Executive Director Kim Bearden, uncovering the stories of trailblazing doctors, musicians, business legends, and even the South’s first Black millionaire.
Major Taylor Memphis is back with the 6th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Ride! Hit the streets of Memphis and choose your distance of 23, 44, or 70 miles, with fully supported SAG stops along the way.
Did We Miss Something?
Can't pull up to the function?
There are many ways you can support the local black community on Juneteenth, and beyond.
Memphis Athletic Ministries has teamed up with the Memphis Grizzlies and Memphis Grizzlies Youth to bring young ballers together for the Juneteenth Jr. NBA Grizzlies 3v3 Tournament!
Perks include:
- Jr NBA Grizzlies jerseys for each player
- Prizes for 1st and 2nd place teams
- Appearances by NBA/WNBA legends
- Grizzlies entertainment team performances
This Black-owned bakery is throwing down in the kitchen, whipping up all kinds of treats that would have the ancestors coming back for more.
We could all use more moments to tend to our minds, bodies, and spirits—and there’s no day like Juneteenth to do so.
The Feeding the Root GROWS Market will not only be a space for folks to secure locally-grown fruits and veggies, but the outdoor yoga sessions offer opportunities for participants to find and protect their peace.
