Juneteenth is this Thursday, June 19. Now in its ninth year, the South Carolina Juneteenth Freedom Fest is marking the occasion with a full week of events, culminating in a Main Street parade and celebration on Saturday, June 21. Here’s a breakdown of Juneteenth events happening this week:
Event lineup
Juneteenth at the CMA | Thursday, June 19 | 10 a.m.-8 p.m. | Columbia Museum of Art | Free | Join guided tours of both exhibitions at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., led by Dr. Nancy Tolson, CMA commissioner and USC’s Assistant Director of African American Studies.
Family Storytime | Thursday, June 19 | 10-10:45 a.m. | Richland Library Cooper | Bring the family to celebrate Juneteenth through special story books.
South Carolina Juneteenth Freedom Fest |Through Saturday, June 21 | Various Locations | This weeklong celebration honors Juneteenth with panels, workshops, and community events, closing with a parade and block party downtown.
- Mental Wellness Monday | Mon, June 16 | 6–8 p.m. | House of Hathor
A panel discussion with Black mental health professionals to open the week. - Youth Financial Literacy Workshop | Tue, June 17 | 5:30–7:30 p.m. | Latimer Manor | A hands-on session empowering youth to build real economic power.
- Small Business Workshop | Wed, June 18 | 6–8 p.m. | Busby Street Community Center | Hosted by the City of Columbia, this workshop highlights how to launch, sustain, and grow small businesses in our communities.
- Community Celebration and Cashmob | Thu, June 19 | 6–9 p.m. | House of Hathor | The evening of celebration features a keynote address by Baba Amin Ojuok.
- Youth 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament | Fri, June 20 | 4-9 p.m. | 140 Diamond Ln., Columbia | The annual tournament will feature local youth, live DJs, and halftime performances.
- Juneteenth Freedom Festival and Parade | Sat, June 21 | 2–8 p.m. | SC State House | The festival kicks off with a Main Street parade and continues with a Sumter Street block party featuring live music, DJs, vendors, and guest speakers.
Want more details? Follow Juneteenth Freedom Festival on Instagram.
