Juneteenth began in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, when Union troops announced General Order No. 3, declaring that enslaved people in Texas were free. Known as the birthplace of Juneteenth, Galveston is where this historic announcement gave rise to an annual celebration of freedom that continues today. Visitors can explore the island’s Juneteenth history through historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and public art, including the powerful “Absolute Equality” mural in Historic Downtown Galveston.
Experience Juneteenth in Galveston, Texas, through annual celebrations and year-round attractions. Plan a June visit to enjoy the Juneteenth parade, festivals, and community events, or take a self-guided tour of historic landmarks and public art that honor the journey to freedom. Whether you're visiting for the celebrations or exploring the birthplace of Juneteenth any time of year, discover the people, places, and stories that continue to shape Galveston’s lasting legacy.
Galveston’s Juneteenth landmarks offer powerful connections to the history of freedom and emancipation in the United States that can be experienced year round.
Reedy Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church holds a special place in Juneteenth history as one of the sites where General Order No. 3 was read on June 19, 1865, announcing freedom for enslaved people in Texas. For more than 175 years, the church has stood as a powerful symbol of liberation, resilience, faith, and education, continuing to honor its legacy through annual Juneteenth celebrations that bring the community together.
Built in 1859, Ashton Villa was the first of Galveston’s grand Broadway mansions and remains one of the Island’s most iconic historic landmarks. Outside of the historic landmark, there is the 9ft bronze statue of State Representative Al Edwards (known as "The Legislator") that can be viewed and visited at anytime.
Founded in 1992 in response to rising youth violence and unrest, NIA began as a Family Strengthening and Empowerment Program funded through the Community Youth Development program. The organization functions as an art gallery, an educational hub, and the headquarters for the Juneteenth Legacy Project.
Juneteenth and Beyond is a Black-owned and operated sightseeing and cultural tourism company dedicated to sharing the rich African American history and heritage of Galveston. Through engaging guided tours, our passionate and knowledgeable team brings the stories, people, and places that shaped the Island to life, offering visitors an authentic and meaningful experience of Galveston’s culturally significant landmarks.
As the oldest continuously operating library in Texas, Rosenberg Library preserves an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, photographs, and archival materials that document the history and legacy of Juneteenth. Its rich archives offer visitors a deeper understanding of Galveston’s pivotal role in the story of freedom and emancipation.
The Bryan Museum brings Texas history to life through its extensive collections and exhibitions exploring the American West and the state's diverse cultural heritage. While Juneteenth is not featured in a permanent exhibit, the museum regularly honors the occasion through special events, lectures, and rotating exhibitions, including works such as Ted Ellis's powerful painting Free at Last.
Retrace history where Juneteenth began with Galveston’s self-guided Freedom Walk Tour. Follow the path of Union soldiers from the harbor and the Middle Passage marker to the Juneteenth historical marker, where General Gordon Granger issued General Orders No. 3. Continue to the Custom House, where the order was printed, then to Reedy Chapel, site of the first Juneteenth celebration, before ending at historic Ashton Villa.
With celebrations taking place across the island, there’s something for everyone to experience during Juneteenth. See all the events, activities, and cultural experiences Galveston has to offer.
Yes. Juneteenth is now recognized as a national holiday in the United States. The holiday honors the end of slavery in the country and is rooted in the events that took place in Galveston on June 19, 1865.
Galveston is considered the birthplace of Juneteenth because freedom was announced in Texas here on June 19, 1865. Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and issued General Order No. 3, informing enslaved people in Texas that they were free.
June is the best time to visit for annual Juneteenth celebrations, including events, programs and community gatherings. Visitors can also explore Galveston’s Juneteenth landmarks, historic sites and cultural attractions year-round.
Galveston celebrates Juneteenth with events that may include parades, festivals, concerts, cultural programs, educational exhibits, community gatherings and historical reflections. Events vary each year, so visitors are encouraged to check the current Juneteenth event schedule when planning their trip.
