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 Cultural Gala
Saturday, June 18, 2022, 7 p.m. - Sunday, June 19, 2022, 12 a.m.
Blend Wine Bar
Come experience a night of luxury, fun and social entertainment with some of the area's most successful black-owned business owners and community leaders while celebrating African American culture.
Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 18, 2022, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Delmont Gardens Branch Library
Celebrate Juneteenth at Delmont Gardens Branch Library with games, food and vendors. This event will also feature a panel discussion with professionals sharing tips on how to be successful within their fields.
Juneteenth Celebration of Unity
Sunday, June 18, 2022, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
200 St. Louis Street
This celebration will be one you don’t want to miss, complete with a live performance by Grammy award winner, PJ Morton, panel discussions, food trucks, live art and a black business market.
Liberations & Libations
Saturday, June 18, 2022, 6 p.m.
Deuce Bar & Lounge
You’re invited to indulge in a festive ambiance to commemorate the historic moment that is Juneteenth! Doors open at 6 p.m., and this event will feature three DJs and drink specials every hour.
Daycation Sundays - Juneteenth Edition
Sunday, June 19, 2022, 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Squeaky Pete's
Doors at Squeaky Pete’s will open at 3 p.m. for their Juneteenth celebration! With sounds by DJ Rev and a live performance by B Will, this event is hosted by Busta 1K and Zay Bandz.
The Juneteenth Experience
Sunday, June 19, 2022, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Vegan Friendly Foods
This Juneteenth Celebration hosted by The Experience by EG | Event Planning and Vegan Friendly Foods will feature a pop-up shop of black-owned vendors, family fun, live entertainment and much more!
Have a Juneteenth event that should be added? Submit your event and we'll add the information to our blog!
