Juneteenth is here — let’s celebrate with these events!

Know your history: Juneteenth, which became a federal holiday in 2021, originated on June 19, 1865, in Galveston Bay, Texas, when about 2,000 Union troops announced that ’more than 250,000 enslaved Black people in the state [were] free by executive decree.’

- By TYRA WATTS

It’s also a day when the Black community rejoices, reflects, and participates in communal efforts through festivals, parties, and gatherings. For this year’s Juneteenth, here are some events that you can attend in the New York and New Jersey areas that focus on this historical holiday.

June 19

11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Host: Battery Park City Authority, Federation of Black Cowboys, and Go Hard Dance Studio

Location: Rockefeller Park River Terrace & Murray Street New York, NY 10280

The Battery Park City Authority will host its Juneteenth Celebration with the Federation of Black Cowboys and Go Hard Dance Studio. The Federation of Black Cowboys will provide pony rides while teaching the history of horsemanship and riding (riders must be 3 years old or older). Meanwhile, Go Hard Dance Studio will host a dance workshop on hip-hop and soul line dancing. The event is free to attend, and you can reserve your spot by searching Battery Park City Authority Juneteenth Celebration on Eventbrite.

12:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.

Host: Jackie Robinson Museum

Location: Jackie Robinson Museum One Hudson Square Building 75 Varick St New York, NY 10013

To celebrate Juneteenth and African American Music Month, the Jackie Robinson Museum will host a special tribute to Jackie Robinson’s life and legacy through music. This event will feature gallery tours about baseball and music history, hands-on art creations, interactive workshops, and more. Tickets are on sale now and available to purchase on the Jackie Robinson Museum website. Tickets are free for children under the age of 5; $15.00 for adults, seniors, college students, youth ages 5–17, and visitors with disabilities.

12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.