This year marks 161 years since Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to declare the end of slavery on June 19, 1865. This announcement came two years after the Emancipation Proclamation because of the lack of a Union presence in Confederate states to ensure enforcement. The holiday that is now known as Juneteenth was first celebrated by formerly enslaved Texans the next year in 1866.
Then-President Joe Biden gave the holiday federal recognition by signing a bill to make June 19 a federal holiday in 2021.
If you’re looking to celebrate Juneteenth in the Des Moines area this year, here is a list of events taking place before, during, and after the holiday:
An Evening with the Black Iowa History Films of Steve Berry
Filmmaker and Howard University Professor Emeritus Steve Berry will be at Burns United Methodist Church in Des Moines to show short films exploring the impact and influence of African American culture and presence in Iowa. The event will also hold a silent art auction for fundraising.
Iowa Juneteenth’s Jubilee
Iowa Juneteenth is hosting its Juneteenth Jubilee at the State Historical Building in Des Moines. The event will feature music and entertainment, an award ceremony, a silent auction, historical memorabilia and displays, and a chance to connect with fellow community members.
Juneteenth Summer Family Friday at State Historical Museum of Iowa
Kicking off its inaugural year this summer is the State Historical Museum of Iowa’s Summer Family Fridays, which features free programming, such as scavenger hunts, crafts, and guided tours, centered around a specific theme each Friday. June 19’s theme will cover Juneteenth and the Civil War, where attendees can learn about Black Iowans’ contributions to the state through a variety of activities. More information and registration for the guided tour can be found at the State Historical Society of Iowa’s website.
UAW Local 450 Juneteenth and Pride Celebration
Unionized automobile, aerospace and agricultural workers in Des Moines are hosting a joint celebration for both Juneteenth and Pride. The event will feature a DJ, food, guest speakers, local vendors, and games for the whole family.
Sew Black: Juneteenth Sewcial
Modern sewing and upcycling studio UpStitch’d will hold a beginner-friendly T-shirt making workshop to help attendees make their own unique apparel. All necessary materials will be provided as well as refreshments and music. Tickets for the event can be purchased at upstiched.com.
Hope+Elim Juneteenth Celebration
Lutheran church Hope+Elim is holding a Juneteenth event featuring Daryl Davis as its keynote speaker. Davis is a nationally recognized musician and activist from Chicago. The event will also have worship, music and community engagement.
New City Poets Juneteenth Poetry Jam
New City Poets, a local creative collective with a goal of amplifying Black voices and culture, is hosting a poetry jam and open mic on Juneteenth. This year marks the second iteration of the event and will feature artists T-Spirit, Andre Davis, Larry Moor, Mister Aubs, Claudine Cheatem, Jandeltha Rae and Thunda Khatt. The event is for those ages 18 and older, according to the organization’s Facebook page.
The Bombshelter Juneteenth Comedy Showcase
For those looking for a laugh, Underground Comedy Des Moines presents the Bombshelter Juneteenth comedy show at the Beechwood Lounge. This year’s headliners are Darius Daye and Bernard Bell. While the event is free to attend, $5 donations are encouraged by the event’s organizers.
Willkie House Juneteenth Party
The Willkie House, a youth engagement and development nonprofit, is hosting a 21+ event to celebrate Juneteenth as well as the organization’s 109th birthday, complete with a DJ and local food. The party is in partnership with the Iowa Club of Des Moines, a nonprofit that supports Des Moines high school seniors and hosts community events. Tickets can be purchased at willkiehouse.org.
Iowa Juneteenth Neighbors Day Celebration
The day after its Juneteenth Jubilee, Iowa Juneteenth will host the Des Moines area community to enjoy the day with live entertainment, local food and shopping vendors, health and wellness resources, and a space to commemorate the historical holiday at Western Gateway Park.
Ottumwa Juneteenth Celebration
The Ottumwa Juneteenth Celebration is holding its fifth annual Juneteenth event in Central Park, featuring live performances, historical education, refreshments, a bounce house, train games, and more.
Isabelle Foland is a communities reporter for the Register. Reach her at ifoland@registermedia.com.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Don’t miss these 2026 Juneteenth events in and around Des Moines
Reporting by Isabelle Foland, Des Moines Register / Des Moines Register
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Isabelle Foland, Des Moines Register | USA TODAY Network
