Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, is a celebratory tradition dating back more than 150 years commemorating the reading of federal orders in the city of Galveston, Texas, proclaiming 250,000 enslaved people were to be freed. After almost two and half years since the Emancipation Proclamation, June 19, 1865, is often recognized as the end of slavery in the United States. June 19th or Juneteenth was designated a federal holiday in 2021.
The Iowa Juneteenth Observance organization and others are hosting a number of events in the Des Moines metro area welcoming families to engage in important conversations about race, racial injustice and equality while having fun together. Please visit Iowa Juneteenth Observance’s website for a full schedule of events.
For additional family friendly events visit our Calendar and Summer Fun Guide.
Juneteenth events happening in the Des Moines Area:
Toddler Storytime : Juneteenth Celebration
FREE: Monday, June 3, 2024, East Side Library at 10:00 am
Toddler Storytime welcomes special guest, Dwana Bradley, Executive Director of Iowa Juneteenth and the Des Moines Urban Experience. Together, participants will delve into the rich history of Juneteenth, discovering how this day is celebrated in Des Moines and exploring plans for the future. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to craft their very own Juneteenth-inspired creation to take home. This engaging event offers toddlers and their caregivers a chance to enjoy introductory stories, songs, music, and movement tailored for ages 18 months to 36 months.
Emancipation Day: Juneteenth Event
Saturday, June 8, 2024, Living History Farms at 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
The Emancipation Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863. Why did some enslaved Americans not hear news of their freedom for more than two years? Performances by the Pyramid Theatre Company of Des Moines, featuring the Langston Hughes Players and Sparks McCamey Gospel, will address the legacy of emancipation and the origins of Juneteenth. The day will conclude with a Historic Baseball game played by 1876 rules.
Iowa Juneteenth Storytime
FREE: Thursday June 13, 2024, Grimes Public Library at 10:00 am
Join the General Chairperson of Iowa Juneteenth, Dwana Bradley, as she reads a story and then create a craft that celebrates African American culture and history in Iowa. Songs, rhymes, books, and activities are designed to be developmentally appropriate for ages 2-5, but all ages are welcome to attend.
Neighbors Day Celebration
FREE: Saturday, June 15, 2024, Western Gateway Park at 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Celebrate with Iowa Juneteenth at their annual community event! Enjoy entertainment, shopping, food, storytelling, children’s festivities, and more! This family-friendly gathering welcomes everyone. Join them for a memorable day of fun and togetherness!
Juneteenth Scavenger Hunts
FREE: June 17-18, 2024, South Side Library
June 20-24, 2024, Forest Avenue Library
June 20-29, 2024, South Side Library
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Juneteenth with Des Moines Public Library’s engaging Juneteenth Scavenger Hunts. Explore the libraries as you search for captivating images that depict the significance of this momentous occasion.
Black Women 4 Healthy Living Juneteenth Tea
FREE: Monday, June 19, 2024, Grand View University – Student Center – Speed Lyceum Conference Center at 12:00 pm
The Black Women’s Health Coalition is all about Black women and their health, wellness, and wellbeing. Health Assessments are given monthly to measure progress. The group engage in low-impact physical activity and discuss a health-related topic unique to Black women while enjoying a healthy snack. There are resources and incentives for participating. They will hold their annual Juneteenth Tea this year at Grandview University. The event is free, but registration is required to attend.
The Black Feminist Guide to the Human Body
June 22 – July 7, 2024, Stoner Theater presented by Pyramid Theatre Company
The Black Feminist Guide to the Human Body meditates on Black women’s experiences from the perspectives of mind, body, and spirit. What makes the piece unique is its focus on middle-aged and older Black women, an often invisible and neglected group, especially by the medical establishment. Thompson also celebrates Black feminist pioneers and icons whose contributions to the arts, culture, politics, and academia transformed the world. The piece culminates in an audience dance party and an invitation for Black women to share their own contributions to Black feminist wisdom.
