WISCONSIN — Juneteenth, the federal holiday recognizing the end of slavery in the U.S., is on Monday.
On June 19, 1865, troops in Galveston Bay, Texas told the last enslaved Black people that they were free, through the Emancipation Proclamation and 13th Amendment. The Emancipation Proclamation was issued on Jan. 1, 1863; the 13th Amendment was passed on Jan. 31, 1865 and ratified Dec. 6, 1865.
Wisconsinites are gearing up to celebrate this important day in history. Here are Juneteenth events happening around the state:
Milwaukee
Juneteenth Jubilee Parade and Street Festival
When: June 19 | 9-11 a.m.
Where: Parade route begins on 14th St. and Atkinson Ave. and ends on Dr. MLK Jr. Dr. and Locust St.
The 52nd annual Juneteenth parade in Milwaukee is themed "I Am Juneteenth." The parade will feature floats, dancers, bands and more. First, second and third places prizes are up for grabs for parade marchers.
Juneteenth Events at ABHM
When: June 18-23
Where: America's Black Holocaust Museum | 401 West North Ave.
America's Black Holocaust Museum in Milwaukee is celebrating Juneteenth all week long. June 18 kicks off the event series with museum tours for fathers and their families on Father's Day. Themed story times take place on June 19, 20, 21 and 23, with some story times offering crafts, too. A book club meeting will take place on June 21 and a coffee-meets-oral history event will take place June 22.
Juneteenth Burlesque Show
When: June 17 | 8 p.m. - 12 a.m.
Where: Bremen Cafe | 901 East Clarke St.
This free burlesque show celebrates Black excellence, featuring burlesque dancers from around the U.S. Food will be provided and donations are requested.
Madison
Juneteenth in the Park
When: June 17 | 12-6 p.m.
Where: 2101 Fisher St.
From a basketball tournament to local vendors to food to kids activities to a parade, there is something for everyone at the 34th annual Juneteenth celebration in Madison.
Each One Teach One's 6th Annual Juneteenth Soul Food Brunch: The Remix
When: June 18 | 3-5 p.m.
Where: Goodman Community Center | 214 Waubesa St.
Each One Teach One is celebrating Black fathers and their success this Juneteenth. With "day party vibes" this brunch includes a DJ, cash bar and raffle prizes. Black dads and kids 5-years-old and younger are free. Individual tickets are $25, and family tickets are $50.
Juneteenth Events on the Terrace
When: June 14-19
Where: Terrace at Memorial Union | 800 Langdon St.
The Terrace at the University of Wisconsin Madison is hosting a range of Juneteenth events throughout the week. From June 14-17 from 5-8 p.m., try your hand at bedazzling diamond artwork, coloring and creating Juneteenth flags. On June 18, from 2:30-9:30 p.m., head to a live jazz concert. On June 19, check out a screening of "Black Panther" at 9 p.m. All events are free.
Green Bay/Fox Cities
4th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Celebration
When: June 17 | 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Where: Joannes Park | 215 S. Baird St., Green Bay, Wis.
Enjoy live entertainment, food, drinks, dancing, music, a kids shop and games to celebrate Juneteenth. The annual event is hosted by We All Rise: African American Resource Center and Black Lives United-Green Bay.
African Heritage Juneteenth Celebration
When: June 11 | 12-5 p.m.
Where: Fox Cities Exhibition Center | 355 W Lawrence St., Appleton, Wis.
This Juneteenth celebration kicks off with a drum and dance performance entitled "Calling Our Ancestors." The afternoon continues with speakers, poets, music, prayers, comedians, ceremonies, a Divine Nine stroll and more. Admission is free.
La Crosse
La Crosse Juneteenth Celebration
When: June 18 | 12-7 p.m.
Where: Riverside Park | 100 State St.
This event promises a day full of unity, featuring food, entertainment, history, education, connection and more. Admission is free.
Wausau
Juneteenth Celebration
When: June 17 | 5-9 p.m.
Where: Whitewater Music Hall | 130 1st St.
This free event aims to honor the importance of the historical holiday. More information will be provided by event organizers closer to the event.
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