Juneteenth celebrations are set to take place throughout Austin this weekend, commemorating the 161st anniversary of the arrival of Union troops in Galveston Bay. On June 19, 1865, these troops announced the emancipation of over 250,000 enslaved individuals in Texas, an announcement made more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. In recognition of its historical significance, June 19—termed Juneteenth—was designated a federal holiday in 2021.
From historical bike rides to Austin’s beloved annual parade, a variety of events will be held across the city to honor this important occasion.
Annual Juneteenth FunRun, June 19
The African American Cultural and Heritage Facility in Austin will kick off the celebrations with a FunRun at 8:30 a.m. on Friday. The run begins at East Martin Luther King Jr. Street and Leona Street, concluding at Hargrave Street near the Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex. Participants will have one hour to complete the route, which mirrors the parade path through the African American Historical Cultural District set to commence later that morning. This event welcomes runners and walkers of all ages and abilities.
Central Texas Juneteenth Parade & Festival, June 19
Scheduled for Friday at 10 a.m., the annual Juneteenth parade will start at East Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Leona Street, proceeding to Chicon Street and then turning onto Rosewood Avenue. The parade promises an exciting display of floats, live music, and various performers.
A Very Juneteenth Comedy Jam, June 19
The Velveeta Room, Austin’s oldest comedy venue, will host a comedy jam on Friday evening at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m., featuring performances that spotlight Black voices. This 18+ event will include comedians such as Freddy Do Less and Roderick McDaniel, with tickets priced around $23 for each show.
Sistas Walk And Talk: Juneteenth Edition, June 20
On Saturday morning at 7:45 a.m., the Texas Sistas Society will organize a 3-mile walk and talk, commencing at 515 S. Pleasant Valley Road. This Austin-based community, dedicated to Black women and women of color, encourages attendees to don Juneteenth colors—red, yellow, green, or black—and to RSVP in advance.
The Carver Kickback: Juneteenth Edition, June 20
The George Washington Carver Museum will host a free celebration on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., promoting a space that honors the global contributions of Black individuals. The event will feature barbecue plates, live music, vendors, and activities designed for attendees of all ages.
Black Auteur Film Festival, June 20
The nonprofit Black Auteur Film Festival will hold its third annual event on Saturday, showcasing short films created by Black Texans at AFS Cinema. One filmmaker will be awarded a $1,000 prize for “Best of Fest,” and attendees can partake in a raffle for Austin Film Society memberships and movie tickets. The festival will run from 2 to 5 p.m., with tickets available for $14.
Juneteenth Social Ride, June 21
On Saturday at 10 a.m., the Black History Bike Ride, an Austin nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about the city’s Black history through cycling, will host its seventh annual Juneteenth ride. The event will start at the Haskell House, with Austin historian Harrison Eppright serving as the guide. While registration is required, the ride is free, although donations are welcomed.
