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Celebrate Freedom at a Juneteenth Fest

Libby Wiersema Libby Wiersema
Libby Wiersema lived in California and Alabama before settling in South Carolina 38 years ago, where she's covered the state's best culinary offerings and tells the stories behind the food.
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Jordan Benton performs a rhythmic dance at the 2021 Juneteenth Family Fest in North Charleston.

June in South Carolina is a time of widespread festivities as people across the state observe one of the most time-honored African American celebrations. Also known as “Freedom Day,” Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans by Union soldiers in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865. The rejoicing that emanated lives on today and has found meaningful expression through events that mark this monumental moment in our nation’s history as a time for both reflection and fun. Here are some of the biggest and best Juneteenth celebrations in South Carolina.

 

Juneteenth Freedom Festival, Columbia

This festival begins with a host of interesting seminars and educational programs offered at various locations across town. The energy ramps up with an exciting night parade in downtown Columbia and the following festival day will feature musical artists and performers, food trucks,  games, exhibitors and more for big-time family fun. Visit the website for ticket info. 

 

Juneteenth Family Fest, North Charleston

Riverfront Park is the setting for this daylong celebration that honors the area’s Gullah Geechee roots. This family event is packed with a rich lineup of artistic performances, live music, kiddie games, art displays, vendors and food. For the grand finale, sit back and watch spectacular fireworks light up the Lowcountry sky. 

Lowcountry Juneteenth Week & Festival, North Charleston

What’s better than a Juneteenth celebration? A whole week of Juneteenth celebrations! This fest has it all with a series of events happening across North Charleston designed to educate and empower through Gullah arts and culture. Things comes to a rousing close with a ticketed live music concert. Visit the website for events, dates, times and scheduled performers.

 

Juneteenth GVL Mega Fest, Greenville

Greenville makes a vibrant stage for its thrid annual  Juneteenth festival. With freedom, unity and leadership as themes, the community gathering revolves around a full day of live music, art, games, food, vendors, fashion and family entertainment. 

 

Juneteenth Celebration, Hilton Head Island

Come to Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park for a rich cultural experience that explores the past, celebrates the present and envisions a brighter future. Bring your chairs and enjoy the soulful sounds of musical acts steeped in Gullah tradition. Learn about African-American culture in the Lowcountry, sample local foods, watch demonstrations and let the little ones expend some energy in the Children's Corner. The park, once home to the nation’s first self-governing group of freed African Americans, makes a fitting setting for this unforgettable event. Check the website for admission pricing and preliminary events.

 

Juneteenth Rock Hill

Reflection, remembrance and rejoicing—all are part of this robust weekend affair celebrating African American history, contributions and community. Guest speakers, live performances, educational programs, local and regional artists and food truck fare will enlighten, entertain and delight. Check the website for locations and admission info.

 

Other Juneteenth events Around the Palmetto State

Juneteenth Celebration on Iconic Blueberry Hill, Columbia

Juneteenth Celebration Weekend, Spartanburg

Bluffton Juneteenth Celebration, Bluffton

Newberry Juneteenth, Newberry

Juneteenth Mullins 2024

Libby Wiersema
Libby Wiersema lived in California and Alabama before settling in South Carolina 38 years ago, where she's covered the state's best culinary offerings and tells the stories behind the food.