Welcome to your guide for year-round Juneteenth experiences in Galveston, the birthplace of this pivotal celebration of freedom.
Whether you're a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or simply looking to connect with this significant piece of American heritage, Galveston offers a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrate freedom and resilience.
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.
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.
Galveston’s Juneteenth Exibit “And Still We Rise…” is located in the carriage house of the 1859 Ashton Villa and overseen by Galveston Historical Foundation’s African American Heritage Committee, introduces the context and consequences of that announcement from 1865 to the present day, in a long journey towards “absolute equality.”
The Nia Cultural Center offers a journey through African American history from the 1800s to the present day. The gallery features sculptures and paintings by local Black artists, plus a reflection area.
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.
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!
