Itinerary for Celebrating Juneteenth in Atlanta: From History to Exploration

By Aubree Dumas

Last Updated May 29, 2026

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Juneteenth commemorates the June 19, 1865, announcement in Galveston, Texas, that enslaved people were free. The news arrived almost two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021, a day to honor Black culture and progress toward unity and equality. 

Atlanta’s position as the heart of the Civil Rights Movement makes celebrating Juneteenth in our city even more special. Juneteenth Atlanta is a 10-year member of the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation, the driving force behind Juneteenth becoming a national holiday. 

Looking for ways to celebrate this federal holiday? Here are some ideas: 

Visit a Park

Shirley Clarke Franklin Park

Atlanta’s largest park was recently named after former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Clarke Franklin. Once known as Bellwood Quarry, this green space has become a popular stop for lovers of the outdoors. With plenty of walking trails and acres of well-kept greenery, you might be inspired to start your Juneteenth there then move on to explore Atlanta’s historic Westside.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Covering nearly 35 acres throughout the historic Edgewood neighborhood, this national park highlights the history and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. allowing visitors to walk in his footsteps. Explore his roots with a visit to his birth home, feel his energy while attending a service at the new Ebenezer Baptist Church or listening to his sermons while sitting in a pew at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church where Dr. King, his father and grandfather preached. Dr. King and Coretta Scott King both are buried at the park.

Oakland Cemetery

Deeply rooted in African-American history, Oakland Cemetery is popular for the many community events held there. In the late 1860s, African Americans in Atlanta were buried in a segregated section of the cemetery with several enslaved individuals buried in the northeast corner, which came to be known as Slave Square. This is a special place to go and honor those who have come before.

Taste of Soul 

The Busy Bee

An Atlanta staple, The Busy Bee has served celebrities, including iconic civil rights figures, while also being known for being a local favorite with affordable prices. Whether you’re craving a classic fried chicken plate or smothered pork chops, The Busy Bee will make you feel like you’re eating from grandma’s kitchen, with a MICHELIN rating to back it up. 

Paschal’s Restaurant & Bar

When you talk about the history of Black culture in Atlanta, it’s hard not to mention Paschal’s Restaurant & Bar. Located in the heart of historic Castleberry Hill, this restaurant was frequented by notable politicians and leaders during the Civil Rights Movement. For a taste of history, try the 1947 fried chicken, mac & cheese and collard greens. 

Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours

While this is a newer establishment, its comfortable atmosphere and menu of modern soul food brings an elevated brunch and dinner experience for those looking for a MICHELIN-rated experience. Be sure to start with their bread service, including delicious sweet potato biscuits and save room for the spiced rum peach cobbler, the aroma will surely make your mouth water.

Breakfast at Barneys

Breakfast at Barneys will be celebrating Freedom, Unity and Equality on Juneteenth. Menu items include salmon croquette bites, biscuits & gravy with chicken sausage, hush puppies and peach cobbler pies.

Attend a Festival

Juneteenth Atlanta Parade & Music Festival

Mark your calendar. This year marks the 14th year for the annual gathering at Piedmont Park. Set for June 19-21, the festival will feature music, vendors and even a parade.  

Juneteenth Family Festival at Oakland Cemetery

On June 19, historic Oakland Cemetery will have an immersive tour highlighting Black Atlantans buried at Oakland. Guests can also enjoy a free screening of Maynard, a documentary about Atlanta’s first African American Mayor. There will also be kid-friendly games and activities to enjoy.

For more festivals and events, check out these things to do on Juneteenth in Atlanta. Continue exploring and celebrating Black culture in Atlanta through the Official Black Travel Guide, ATL Unguided.

Aubree Dumas is a writer, content producer, and digital storyteller passionate about solo travel, food, and culture. She is a video production creator for Discover Atlanta, where she develops cinematic content and feature stories that spotlight the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, hidden gems, and rich cultural experiences. With a background in performing arts and digital media, Aubree brings a creative and immersive lens to every story she tells.

Originally Published June 4, 2025