On June 19, 1865, federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to bring the news that the Civil War had ended and to ensure all enslaved people were freed. As the news spread, so too did the celebrations – Juneteenth, also known as Jubilee Day, Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, was born.
With a full calendar of events uplifting the message of perseverance and Black history, Juneteenth weekend in Indy has something for everyone. From local concerts to special museum activities to culinary events to match the occasion, the city will be alive this June to commemorate Black excellence and freedom.
From the storied history of Indiana Avenue's jazz scene to the legacy of Madame Walker and the historic sites that tell the story, Indy's Black culture is history is robust. Experience the art that, in some cases, stands as tall as a building. You want to taste what our pioneering chefs are cooking and hear the city's unique sounds.
Indy is a city filled with African American culture and attractions. Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration is the longest-running cultural event in the country, and Circle City Classic brings historic black colleges to square off in Lucas Oil Stadium.
There are plenty of places to round up some grub in Indianapolis, but these Black-owned eateries have a special place in our hearts.
Indy's Black history is one of entrepreneurship and perseverance in times of hardship, one of creative expression, and one of fostering places of unity and forward-thinking despite adversity.
