Juneteenth is more than a commemoration of emancipation—it’s a joyful, creative, and communal declaration that Black freedom matters, Black stories matter, and Black futures matter.
A Brief History of Juneteenth
Juneteenth—short for “June Nineteenth”—marks the day in 1865 when enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas finally learned they were free, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.
Although the Emancipation Proclamation became official on January 1, 1863, it wasn’t enforced in all Confederate states until Union troops arrived. On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and announced that all enslaved people were now free, in accordance with federal law.
Juneteenth became a long-standing day of celebration in Black communities, especially in Texas. It’s a time to reflect on freedom, honor ancestors, and celebrate Black culture, joy, and resistance. In 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a federal holiday in the United States.
Juneteenth is not just about the past—it’s a reminder that the fight for justice and equity continues today.
This year, Des Moines is hosting an incredible array of events that invite you to learn, honor, move, create, and connect. Whether you’re lacing up for a 5K, stepping up to the mic, or sipping tea in reflection, there’s space for you to show up and celebrate.
Here’s a roundup of Juneteenth events happening in Des Moines from June 14 to June 27, 2025:
🌄 Saturday, June 14 – Juneteenth Celebration Hike
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Fort Des Moines Park, Lakeside Trail
Hosted by Black Iowa Outdoors
Start your Juneteenth weekend with nature, reflection, and community. This guided hike offers a beautiful opportunity to honor Black history while soaking up the outdoors.
🎟️ Register on EventBrite
🎬 Saturday, June 14 – Juneteenth Movie Screening
10:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Varsity Theater
Film: Juneteenth: Faith and Freedom
Celebrate Juneteenth with a powerful documentary exploring its deep spiritual roots and historical significance. Journey with Pastor Rasool Berry to Galveston, Texas—the birthplace of Juneteenth—and hear from guests like Ms. Opal Lee (“the grandmother of Juneteenth”), artist Lecrae, and more. Discover how Scripture and faith sustained those who endured enslavement and how liberation was seen as a divine promise fulfilled.
📍Varsity Theater, 1207 25th St (across from Hope+Elim)
📧 Register by emailing info@hope-elim.org
🎶 Wednesday, June 18 – Juneteenth Music Workshop
6:00 PM | Hope+Elim Church
Musicians of all skill levels are invited to refine their craft with some of gospel music’s most celebrated artists:
- Adam Brown (Bass)
- Calvin Rodgers (Drums)
- Erron Williams (Hammond B3)
- Curtis Lindsey (Keys)
This FREE workshop provides hands-on experience, mentorship, and spiritual connection through music.
📧 Register by emailing info@hope-elim.org
☕ Thursday, June 19 – Juneteenth Tea
12:00 PM | Grand View University Student Center
Theme: Fearfully and Wonderfully Made
Hosted by Black Women 4 Healthy Living, this uplifting afternoon celebration centers the beauty, brilliance, and healing of Black women. Expect inspiration, conversation, and sisterhood.
📍2811 E 14th St, Des Moines, IA
🎤 Thursday, June 19 – Juneteenth Poetry Jam & Open Mic Night
Doors at 6:30 PM | Show: 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM | xBk LIVE
Presented by UBA and New City Poets
Join us at xBk for an unforgettable night of spoken word and poetic expression. This event features seasoned performers and an open mic for anyone ready to share their truth. Whether you’re performing or simply soaking it in, this is a night of soul, strength, and connection.
🎟️ $20 + fees | 📍1159 24th St, Des Moines, IA
🌐 Union of Black America
🙌🏾 Thursday, June 19 – Faith & Freedom Celebration Service
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Hope+Elim Church
This worship service is the spiritual heart of Des Moines’ Juneteenth celebrations. With a message from Dr. Ian Roberts and powerful music, the service will reflect on the theme Set Free to Serve, honoring the link between faith, freedom, and community service.
📧 Register by emailing info@hope-elim.org
✨ Thursday, June 19 – Juneteenth Jubilee
5:00 PM Networking | 6:00 PM Program | State Historical Building
Join the 35th annual Iowa Juneteenth Observance for a rich evening of:
- Awards
- History exhibits
- Community discussion
- Live music by Bethany Elle
- Refreshments and silent auction
🎟️ $35/person or $280/table
📍600 E Locust St, Des Moines
🌐 www.iowajuneteenth.org
🏃🏽♀️ Saturday, June 21 – Embrace the Race 5K: Inclusive Movement Event
9:00 AM | Gray’s Lake Park
An official Iowa Juneteenth partner event!
Embrace the Race is a 5K that encourages participants to walk, run, dance, skate—or move however they feel best. This inclusive event features:
- Rock painting
- Storytime with a local author
- DJ dance party
- Sensory tents
- Vendor booths
- Post-race snacks
- Free admission for kids under 6
🎟️ Register online | Sponsorship & volunteer opportunities available
An official partner of Iowa Juneteenth 2025, this event promotes unity and community across all abilities and backgrounds.
🎉 Saturday, June 21 – Neighbor’s Day Celebration
12:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Western Gateway Park
Bring the whole family to Des Moines’ biggest Juneteenth celebration!
With food vendors, entertainment, community booths, and family fun, Neighbor’s Day is a celebration of unity and joy.
📍1000 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA
⛳ Friday, June 27 – Iowa Juneteenth Charity Golf Outing
7:00 AM Registration | 8:00 AM Shotgun Start
Willow Creek Golf Course, West Des Moines
Swing into service with this fun and relaxing event supporting Iowa Juneteenth programming.
📍140 SE Willow Creek Dr, West Des Moines, IA
⛳ Event powered by GolfStatus
Let Freedom Ring in Every Voice and Every Action
Des Moines’ 2025 Juneteenth events offer something for everyone—music, movement, reflection, and celebration. Wherever you plug in, do so with pride, purpose, and community spirit. Freedom isn’t a finish line—it’s an ongoing commitment.
Want More Black. Girl. Iowa.?
We’re all about storytelling, healing, and honoring the legacy of Black women and communities right here in Iowa. If you enjoyed this Juneteenth roundup and want more:
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- 📱 Follow along on Instagram and TikTok @blackgirliowa for real-time updates, behind-the-scenes, and upcoming community events.
Rooted in truth. Rising in joy. Black. Girl. Iowa. is just getting started. 💜
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