Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of the last enslaved people in the United States on June 19, 1865. Despite the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation, the slow progress of ending slavery meant that there were still some who lived under the tyranny of slavery even after the signing of the proclamation. Hence, Juneteenth is a day when we celebrate the notions of freedom, recognition, self-improvement, and achievements of African Americans. Read on to find out more about celebrating Juneteenth in Columbia, SC.
Go on a Historical Trail
One interactive way of celebrating Juneteenth is by going on a tour of the locations that tell us the story of the post-Civil War Reconstruction Era right here in Columbia, SC. Spanning the period 1865 to 1877, the Reconstruction Era was a time when the people of the United States fought to reintegrate the states that had been split, as well as the rally around the African Americans to determine their legal status.
Pay a visit to historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), the Museum of the Reconstruction Era at the Woodrow Wilson Family Home or check out some of the reconstruction churches that served as important centers of community and social life for African Americans in the years right after the Civil War.
Join a Celebratory Event
To celebrate Juneteenth, there are bound to be some local freedom festivities in your area. Check out some of the events that your local universities or churches are hosting! Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery and is also a celebration of African American heritage and culture. As such, you can look forward to storytelling events, live music, and local food and art vendors in your area! Certain events will come with free admission for the public, but for events that raise funds via ticket sales or voluntary donations, you’ll have to buy an admission ticket.
Connect with Friends and Family
A celebration is rarely done alone. Connect with friends and family on a trip to the museum, or a festival in the park! If a more slow-paced and leisurely celebration is your thing, you can also consider going for a meal at Black-owned restaurants in Columbia, SC. Overall, celebrating Juneteenth is a way for us to better understand the African American community, their struggles, and what they have experienced in the past. It is also an appreciation of the path of progress that we have embarked on as a country. Celebrating Juneteenth with exciting activities in the company of your loved ones is a great way to bond with them over the holiday.
If you are looking out for some fun activities to celebrate Juneteenth in Columbia, SC, you are in luck! There is no better way to learn more about African American history and culture than by participating in some of the freedom festivities and visiting museums. Whether you are spending your retirement in South Carolina, or you have lived here your entire life, there are always new, bustling events around the corner. Check out some of the southern charms in our area attractions! The many recreational sites and museums in Columbia, SC, will not disappoint.
