Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This day is now recognized as a state and federal holiday and is commemorated with various events across the country. In Oregon, several family-friendly events will take place to celebrate this significant day, emphasizing community, culture, and history. Here are some of the events you can attend with your family:
- Portland: The Juneteenth Oregon Community Parade and Festival on June 15 starts at 9:00 AM with the Clara Peoples Freedom Trail Parade at King School Park and continues at Lillis-Albina Park from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The festival will feature live music, entertainment, educational opportunities, art, delicious food, cultural booths, and a dedicated children’s area. More details can be found here and here (PDX Parent)(Portland.gov).
- Bend: “Juneteenth Central Oregon” will be celebrated at Drake Park on June 17-18. The event includes entertainment, music, food, dancing, face painting for kids, and various educational exhibits. More details can be found here (Oregon Black Pioneers) (OPB).
- Coos Bay: Themed “Family Reunion,” the celebration starts on June 17 with a talk at the Coos History Museum and continues with a reception at Black Market Gourmet. On June 19, there will be a free screening of the movie “Soul” at the Egyptian Theater. More information is available here (OPB) (KLCC).
- Eugene: The fourth annual Juneteenth celebration at Alton Baker Park on June 18 will feature a “Black Hair Matters” theme with stylists showcasing different Black hairstyles, along with live music, food, and activities for kids. Details can be found here (KLCC).
- Lincoln City: The “Juneteenth 2024 – A Freedom Celebration” at the Lincoln City Cultural Center on June 15 will feature live music, guest speakers, exhibits from Oregon Black Pioneers, and lunch. For more information, click here (Explore Lincoln City).
- Medford: The BASE Southern Oregon celebration on June 15 at Pear Blossom Park will include live entertainment, African drummers and dancers, a Kids Zone with games and face painting, food trucks, and a vibrant marketplace. More details can be found here (BASE Southern Oregon).
- Salem: The Equity Splash Juneteenth event at the Salem Capitol Mall on June 19 will have games for kids, a bounce house, food, music, and educational talks about diversity and the history of Juneteenth. More information is available here (Salem Reporter).
These events offer a range of activities suitable for families, celebrating freedom, resilience, and community across Oregon. Enjoy!
