For many Americans, we learned about Independence Day (also known as Fourth of July), which occurred July 4, 1776, as the date that America gained its independence from Great Britain, but for African Americans, that day doesn’t technically symbolize the day that they truly earned their freedom as most Black people were still enslaved for almost another hundred years. After the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation was signed and slaves officially received their freedom on June 19, 1865. The date adopted the name Juneteenth (a portmanteau of June and nineteenth). The holiday, which is also referred to as Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, and Jubilee Day, was first celebrated in Galveston, Texas in the 1860s.

Even though the date is still not recognized as a national holiday, it was recognized as a holiday in the state of Texas in 1980 and since then, almost every other state has adopted it as a state holiday as well. In the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020, many companies also began to mark the date as an official company holiday. Whether you have the day off or not, the good news is that Juneteenth falls on Saturday this year so hopefully, you’ll have the opportunity to honor and celebrate the holiday regardless. If you’re seeking ideas for how to celebrate Juneteenth this year, keep reading for a few of our suggestions. Also if you want to learn more about Juneteenth, read this post from the National Museum of African American History & Culture.

Host or attend a cookout

If there’s one warm-weather activity that most of us love, it’s a good old-fashioned cookout. Fire up the grill and gather your family and closest friends for a great time in your backyard or at your local park, or attend a friend’s BBQ to celebrate Juneteenth. Good food + good company is almost always a guaranteed great time!

Find an event in your neighborhood

Many cities across the country are hosting picnics and outdoor cultural events to celebrate Juneteenth this year so check Eventbrite for local events in your area. I’ve seen many events listed online for Houston, Detroit, Brooklyn, Atlanta, and many more major cities.

Watch, read, or listen to your favorite Black artists

Watch your favorite Black television show or movie. Start a book by your favorite Black author. June is also Black Music Month so it’s the perfect time to listen to your favorite Black music artists or make a playlist of your favorite songs. 

Cook or eat traditional foods

What are your favorite traditional foods? I particularly love soul food, especially macaroni and cheese and collard greens. Juneteenth is the perfect day to cook or eat your favorite foods that celebrate Black heritage.

Support Black-owned businesses

It’s important to support Black-owned businesses 365 days a year, but Juneteenth is a great day to remind yourself to support Black-owned businesses. Shop online at a Black-owned site, or support your favorite local Black-owned business.