2023 New Haven Juneteenth Events & Celebrations

History of Juneteenth

Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of ending slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, it was on June 19th that the Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas, with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. Note that this was two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation – which had become official on January 1, 1863. The Emancipation Proclamation had little impact on the Texans due to the minimal number of Union troops to enforce the new Executive Order. However, with the surrender of General Lee in April of 1865, and the arrival of General Granger’s regiment, the forces were finally strong enough to influence and overcome the resistance.

Today, Juneteenth symbolizes the celebration of African American freedom and achievement, while encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures. As it takes on a more national, symbolic and even global perspective, the events of 1865 in Texas are not forgotten, for all of the roots tie back to this fertile soil from which a national day of pride is growing. – JUNETEENTH.COM

New Haven Juneteenth Events

June 17

Juneteenth Celebration 
New Haven Green
12pm – 4pm
Curated by:  The Official Juneteenth Coalition of Greater New Haven
Hosted by: International Festival of Arts & Ideas
Click here for event details.

June 18

Performances by Stefon Hawkins & Jarron Taylor All Sing
New Haven Green
Hosted by: International Festival of Arts & Ideas
3pm
Click here for event details.

June 19

Jazzy’s Juneteenth Brunch 
1 pm
Jazzy’s Cabaret
Click here for event details and to purchase tickets.