As the birthplace of Juneteenth, Galveston offers visitors the chance to experience one of our country’s newest federal holidays in living color 365 days a year.
From its many historic sites and tours that chronicle the day Juneteenth began in Galveston, to its annual Juneteenth festival, special events and new art exhibits, Galveston is the place to commemorate June 19, 1865 – the historic day slavery was abolished in Texas, freeing one of the last groups of slaves in the United States.
Embark on an immersive journey into history as we explore year-round Juneteenth tours, exhibits, and monuments in Galveston, Texas. Discover the enduring legacy of Juneteenth through guided tours, engaging exhibits, and significant monuments that commemorate the struggles and triumphs of emancipation, inviting visitors to reflect, learn, and pay homage to this pivotal moment in American history.
Location: Old Galveston Square, 2201 Strand St
Details: The 5,000-square-foot mural, created by Houston-based Reginald C. Adams, was painted on the side of the Old Galveston Square building, located at 22nd and Strand in downtown Galveston. The massive art installation was an initiative of the Juneteenth Legacy Project, an organization that aimed to raise awareness about Juneteenth and contribute to a growing push to make Juneteenth a national holiday.
Location: Ashton Villa, 2328 Broadway
Details: "And Still We Rise… Galveston's Juneteenth Story" introduces the context of Juneteenth in Galveston from 1865 to the present day, in a long journey towards "absolute equality."
Take this self-guided Freedom Walk to learn about 5 historic sites and their importance to Juneteenth. From Pier 21 and the Middle Passage marker to Galveston's historic Ashton Villa, you'll learn more about Juneteenth with this tour!
In Galveston, you can explore African American history in living color thanks to a new interactive tour app. The tour, found here, allows visitors to take a self-guided journey to learn about the island’s many historically black institutions and monuments celebrating black accomplishments.
Relive the history of African American Texans that is not taught in history books. Explore historical Galveston sites where freedom for all enslaved Texans began on Juneteenth, June 19, 1865! For Juneteenth Freedom Trail Tour tickets, click here.
Where the Texas Coast begins.
Author
Visit Galveston
Visit Galveston is the official destination marketing organization for Galveston Island, Texas.
