How to Celebrate Juneteenth in Atlanta

By Sheretha Bell

Published May 28, 2022
Last Updated June 16, 2023

Juneteenth is the only holiday that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved Africans throughout the United States. It became a federal holiday in 2021. In Atlanta and across the country, businesses and communities honor the cultural and historical importance of Juneteenth with educational events and special programs.

For friends and families looking forward to gathering, understanding and honoring African Americans’ Freedom Day, this list will help you find ways to celebrate Juneteenth in Atlanta and plan your experience.

Since 2011, annual events at Atlanta History Center and the Juneteenth parade at Centennial Olympic Park connect visitors by celebrating human rights and freedom for all. Events are themed around Black genealogy, agricultural practices, unified diaspora, liberty and freedom, social justice and human rights.

Atlanta is the heartbeat of the Civil Rights Movement and the home of many civil rights activists including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Coretta Scott King and Hosea Williams as well as Black leaders and politicians like U.S. Rep. John Lewis, Mayor Maynard Jackson and Xernona Clayton. Some were young adults and students who moved to Atlanta, others had families that migrated to or had roots in some of Atlanta’s first Black neighborhoods and communities. They all made an indelible mark on American history and human rights history. Find out more about these civil rights leaders in Atlanta.

In the late 1800s, many Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were founded to educate freed Black Americans. Learn more about Atlanta’s HBCUs and discover stories about the neighborhoods and churches surrounding them. Visit the Atlanta’s historic West End or walk down historic Auburn Avenue and tour famous Black history sites and landmarks.

Atlanta’s Black community has a rich cultural and historical heritage. See some of the few images of free African American businessmen in the 1850s. Explore and support the growth of Black-owned businesses and restaurants in Atlanta, and make your way around the city exploring Atlanta’s deep and rich history with ATL Unguided.

If all the exploring and walking makes you hungry, discover more with soothing soul food and Southern cuisine or try a food tour. Many of the dishes, recipes and even restaurant designs by local Atlanta chefs and owners reflect deep cultural roots in Black history. 

For more enlightenment, enjoy Atlanta’s Black music roots and influence. 

To learn more about the history of Juneteenth and commemorate the holiday, check out these events celebrating Juneteenth in Atlanta.

Sheretha ‘SB’ Bell loves to discover Atlanta by exploring new experiences and rediscovering traditional treasures. With two young boys and family all around the city, quality time with family and great deals are high priorities.