On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers landed in Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that all slaves were free. This was 2 ½ years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation that became official on January 1, 1863. Since that time, African Americans have celebrated with food, fellowship, prayer, and reassurance.
Juneteenth not only celebrates the freedom of African Americans from slavery, but it's also a time to reflect on the history and the progress that has been made and to encourage continuous self-development. Here's what National Harbor has going on to celebrate and honor Juneteenth.