Juneteenth Events in Baton Rouge

Though the Emancipation Proclamation freed slaves in 1863, it would be years before news made its way down South and many heard of their freedom. Juneteenth (June Nineteenth) is a holiday that celebrates the true freeing of the slaves and is remembered in Baton Rouge through a weekend of liberation, celebration and reflection. The late Sadie Roberts-Joseph, who ran the Baton Rouge African American Museum, led many of Baton Rouge's Juneteenth events and now her family is carrying on her traditions and memory by helping to organize this year's activities. Read details on the weekend's many events below and then make plans to visit Baton Rouge's African American Museum (formerly Odell S. Williams Then & Now Museum of African American History).

Juneteenth Panel Discussion
Thursday, June 15, 2023
LSU Museum of Art

The LSU Museum of Art is partnering with local chapter members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., to host an engaging panel discussion that will unpack the post-emancipation triumphs of Black Americans, on Thursday, June 15, at 5 p.m.

Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 17, 2023

Celebrate Juneteenth at Gus Young Avenue Park with live music, free food, giveaways & more! With fun for the entire family, this free-for-all-ages festival will feature music from Vince Hutchinson & The Heavy Storm Band, and The Bruce Wayne Band.

Smokey's Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 17, 2023
The Smokey Pit

The Smokey Pit is hosting a Juneteenth celebration on June 17, 2023, complete with games and prizes for both kids and adults!

Scotland Saturdays & Levitt AMP Music Series Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 17, 2023
Scotlandville Plaza

Celebrate Juneteenth with live music and good food at Scotland Saturdays Levitt AMP Music Series Juneteenth Celebration! Live music will be provided by Tiyah and 3rd Eye Music Group, with local vendors providing food and other products for purchase.

Juneteenth Paint Party
Sunday, June 18, 2023
Chortazo Fine Art Gallery & Graphic Design Studio

Chortazo Fine Art Gallery & Graphic Design Studio is hosting a Juneteenth Paint Party on June 18, 2023! This party is an opportunity to express yourself artistically while learning more about Juneteenth and its significance. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner, everyone is welcome to join in the fun!

World Spades Tour at The Basin Music Hall
Monday, June 19, 2023
The Basin Music Hall

454 Entertainment is hosting the World Spades Tour at The Basin Music Hall in celebration of Juneteenth on June 19, 2023. Network with entrepreneurs, executives and career-minded professionals while enjoying music from a DJ and a single-elimination spades tournament.