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:
19th-Century African-American Inventors Exhibit
May 23-July 7, 2023, Living History Farms, Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
This exhibit in Living History Farms’ Red Barn Exhibit Hall showcases seven African-Americans who received patents in the 1800s. Despite overwhelming obstacles for Black inventors in this time period, their innovative ideas revolutionized work in the home, on the farm, and in town. Included with General Admission.
Iowa Juneteenth Kick Off Event
FREE: Friday, June 9, 2023, Mainframe Studios at 5:00 to 8:00 pm
Join Iowa Juneteenth for the Kick Off for the Iowa Juneteenth Observance Celebrations. They will have motivational speakers, spoken word, food, drink, and entertainment. All are invited. Learn more about what Iowa Juneteenth has planned for 2023 and how you can become a part of it.
In the Upper Room
June 9-18, 2023, Stoner Theater, Thursday through Saturday at 7:30pm and Sunday at 2:00pm
In The Upper Room is an upbeat and groovy story showcasing a tight-knit Black family in the 70’s. Not everything is as it seems on the surface though! This play dives into family secrets, gossip, colorism, voodoo and the magic of the stories we grow up hearing.
Emancipation Day: Juneteenth Event
Saturday, June 10, 2023, Living History Farms at 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Gain a better understanding of the legacy and hope of emancipation and explore the Black experience in Iowa’s history from early farmsteads through the 20th-century fight for civil rights. The day will open with a reading of the Emancipation Proclamation and close with an historic baseball game with the Walnut Hill Bluestockings vs. Buxton Wonders. All activities included with General Admission.
Iowa Juneteenth Gospel Celebration
FREE: Sunday, June 11, 2023, Hoyt Sherman Place at 5:30 pm
Join Iowa Juneteenth for the annual Iowa Juneteenth Gospel Celebration. This is a FREE event open to the public.
Juneteenth Scavenger Hunt
FREE: June 12-17, 2023, Forest Avenue Library
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Juneteenth with Forest Avenue Library’s engaging Juneteenth Scavenger Hunt. Explore the library as you search for captivating images that depict the significance of this momentous occasion.
Neighbors Day Celebration
FREE: Saturday, June 17, 2023, Western Gateway Park at 12:00 pm to 8:00 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!
Black Women 4 Healthy Living Juneteenth Tea
FREE: Monday, June 19, 2023, 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.
Iowa History 101: Emancipation Celebrations: The Historical Context for Juneteenth
FREE: Tuesday, June 20, 2023, Forest Avenue Library at 6:30pm
Join the Forest Avenue Library for a film presentation from the State Historical Society of Iowa. Leo Landis, State Curator for the State Historical Society of Iowa, will discuss the history of Juneteenth, which has been a state holiday in Iowa since 2002 and became a federal holiday in 2021. Emancipation events in Iowa took place prior to the Civil War in Muscatine and over time communities of various sizes including Clarinda, Corning, and Sioux City have hosted events. The gatherings show that Iowans of many backgrounds have come together to celebrate freedom and equality.
Juneteenth Scavenger Hunt
FREE: June 20-26, 2023, Southside Library
Embark on an exciting adventure at the South Side Library and take part in their captivating Juneteenth Scavenger Hunt! Discover the compelling history of Juneteenth as you explore the library’s intriguing nooks and crannies.
