Juneteenth events happening in the Upstate and Western NC

Cities across the Upstate and in Western North Carolina are gearing up to celebrate Juneteenth, the federal holiday marking the end of slavery in the United States. An array of events are to be held in honor of the holiday, celebrated on June 19.

Anderson: Juneteenth Celebration

Anderson is hosting a Juneteenth celebration at the Westside Community Center on June 15. Open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the celebration will feature outdoor games, water slides for kids, and local vendors. Admission fees range from $3 for a single adult to between $5-$10 for families.

Asheville: Juneteenth on the Block

In Asheville, the YMI Cultural Center will host the Juneteenth on the Block celebration starting at 11 a.m. on June 19, which will include a variety of pop-in events throughout the day. Later in the evening, an intimate gathering is planned at The Foundry’s Workshop Lounge featuring hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and fellowship.

Asheville: Juneteenth Gala and Downtown After 5

Asheville is also hosting a Juneteenth Gala on June 20 at the Stephens-Lee Center. Beginning at 7 p.m., the public is invited to the event which will include catered appetizers, a live band with dancing, and a silent auction showcasing local treasures. On North Lexington Avenue, the month’s Downtown After 5 is themed around the holiday, celebrating diverse food, music, and community initiatives.

City of Mauldin and Fountain Inn: Juneteenth Celebrations

Both the City of Mauldin and Fountain Inn are organizing their own Juneteenth events. Mauldin’s first-ever celebration will take place on June 22 at the Cultural Center Ampitheater, while Fountain Inn’s Soul Food Festival will be held on June 15.

Greenville: Juneteenth Royal Gala and others

In Greenville, events range from a Royal Gala at the Convention Center to a Paint and Social Fundraiser aimed at supporting vulnerable and displaced children. The city will also host a Step Fest workout session and a walking parade along the Swamp Rabbit Trail from Falls Park to Unity Park. Prisma Health will have a noontime program with various speakers and performers discussing the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Spartanburg: Block Party and others

Over in Spartanburg, plans include a Block Party at Love Where You Live Park and a Black Market Tuesday gathering at the Monarch Cafe. Not to mention, a Juneteenth Bec Gala and a Celebration Festival in Downtown Spartanburg with a kids’ zone, live performances, and local vendors.

Vance Birthplace State Historical Site: A Juneteenth Play

The Vance Birthplace State Historical Site is set to host a historical drama production in collaboration with the American Myth Center. Titled “Leah and the Rabbit: A Juneteenth Play”, it aims to showcase the stories and resilience of African Americans and draw contrast to romanticized views of plantation life.

Woodruff: Juneteenth Woodruff

In Woodruff, the Women Designed for Purpose Cancer Walk will take place on June 15. This event is free and will be followed by a market featuring street vendors and food trucks.

All of these events serve as a reminder of the resilient spirit of our African American communities and the importance of recognizing the historical significance of Juneteenth. The celebrations across the Upstate and in Western North Carolina will offer events for everyone in the family to participate in and appreciate.