If you’re looking for the ultimate destination for Juneteenth celebrations, look no further than Atlanta. Home to the Juneteenth Atlanta Parade and Music Festival, the city sees people from all over the country gather to celebrate the momentous day when slavery ended in the United States over three days of festivities.
Whether you’re seeking to participate in the fun or explore the rich and cultural history of Atlanta, here’s your guide to experiencing all that Freedom Day has to offer.
Official Juneteenth Celebrations
The weekend leading up to Juneteenth is when celebrations kick off with The Juneteenth Atlanta Parade and Music Festival, which features live musical performances, games, events and local vendors showcasing their wares.
5K Freedom Run
Centennial Park, located in the Downtown Entertainment District, is the epicenter of Atlanta’s Juneteenth festivities, starting with the 5K Freedom Run, a tribute to everyone who has fought and continues to fight for freedom and human rights. The race begins and ends at this park, routing through downtown Atlanta and passing the College Football Hall of Fame, World of Coca-Cola, Skyview Atlanta, and the fountains in the park.
During or after the run, the park hosts many entertaining activities, from bounce houses to face painting and high-energy fitness classes. You can also groove to the beats of live DJs and performing artists.
Juneteenth Parade
After the 5K Freedom Run, Centennial Olympic Park becomes the perfect spot to watch the Juneteenth Parade. This parade boasts colorful floats, dancing, and performances showcasing Atlanta’s diverse community, including youth organizations, marching bands and dance troupes.
Starting at the capitol building and ending in the park, you can watch the entire parade from the park as you relax and enjoy the festivities. The events continue throughout the day with food vendors, local shops showcasing tasty treats, and four stages featuring talent ranging from comedians to poets and musical acts.
Drum Circle
Prepare to be inspired by the beat of the drum as more than 5,000 participants come together at Centennial Olympic Park to play in a traditional African drum circle as a tribute to their ancestors. It’s a powerful event as professionals and amateurs collectively showcase their talents as they attempt to claim the world record for the largest drum circle.
Arts & Culture in the City
While you’re in Atlanta for the Juneteenth celebrations, take some time to explore the city’s rich history and culture – from commemorative parks to historic neighborhoods.
Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
Spanning 35 acres in Atlanta’s downtown area, the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park is a must-visit in Atlanta. Home to multiple historical buildings, you can visit the home where Martin Luther King, Jr. was born, the famous Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, Fire Station No. 6, and the D.R.E.A.M. Gallery – an exhibition highlighting images that showcase the strong partnership between President Jimmy Carter and the King Family. Don’t miss out on a stroll through the International World Peace Rose Garden. The garden has more than 185 roses in a kaleidoscope of colors.
Atlanta History Center
Explore the Atlanta History Center, a 33-acre complex featuring breathtaking gardens, exhibitions and historic houses. Explore the on-site Atlanta History Museum, which features rotating exhibits such as “Locomotion,” highlighting the history of Atlanta’s railroads and “Seeking Eden,” exploring the evolution of Georgia’s historic gardens. Be sure to stroll through the nine gardens in Goizueta Gardens, home to enchanting waterfalls, native medicinal plants and the Swan Woods Trail.
Krog Street District
If you’re looking for a dynamic mix of dining and shopping in one of Atlanta’s most popular neighborhoods, check out the Krog Street District. From shops selling outdoor apparel to gourmet popcorn, a candy shop and a dog bakery, it’s a neat place to explore. Grab lunch at Krog Street Market. Built in the 1920s, this communal dining hall features a variety of independent food stalls ranging from sushi to barbecue. Popular options include Gu’s Dumplings, Bell Street Burritos, and Butter and Cream, serving artisanal ice cream.
Black-Owned Businesses in Atlanta
While in Atlanta celebrating Juneteenth, why not support some Black-owned dining establishments?
Dining
For one of the best cheesesteaks in the city, head to Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks. Located in Downtown Atlanta, this cheesesteak shop offers a mouthwatering menu with options from classic Philly-style cheesesteaks to cheesesteak egg rolls. For vegans and vegetarians, Slutty Vegan ATL is a must-visit. Dine on mouthwatering vegan eats such as Hooker Fries with blackberry mayo and juicy, plant-based burgers like the Fussy Hussy and Super Slut.
If you’re in the mood for an upscale brunch spot, look no further than Breakfast at Barneys. This restaurant is perfect for weekend brunch comfort food with a menu full of Southern-inspired dishes, like shrimp and grits, fried catfish, and peach cobbler. For a casual dining experience, head to the Atlanta Breakfast Club, a retro diner known for its homemade, Southern-style breakfast. Communal tables and natural lighting make this joint feel laid-back and comfortable. You’ll leave feeling satisfied with a menu full of classic dishes like chicken and waffles, fried green tomatoes, and biscuits and gravy.
Simple decor and chalkboard drawings on the wall make Gocha’s Breakfast Bar feel fun and chic. This joint has a menu of creative dishes and a stylish atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat. Enjoy breakfast mimosas, salmon croquettes, and breakfast pizza.
Shopping & Galleries
Take a moment to explore ZuCot Gallery, the largest Black-owned fine art gallery in the Southeast. This gallery is located in the historic Castleberry Hill district and promotes original works and exhibitions from Black artists. Explore 3,500 square feet of collections by appointment only, or check out their virtual exhibitions online.
Take a detour to The Beehive in Edgewood. Known for showcasing independent designers and artists from Atlanta, this boutique sells everything from necklaces to housewares and apparel. And be sure to visit The Village Retail Market, which sells products from Black creators and is owned by women. You’ll find everything from beauty products and apparel to health and wellness goods and home decor.
