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Juneteenth is a holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. It is also called Emancipation Day or Juneteenth Independence Day. It is a time of reflection and community celebration of freedom.
On June 1, 2024, we hosted our annual Juneteenth Jamboree, inviting the community to celebrate with us. This free admission day at The Children's Museum provided a day full of Juneteenth activities for families in Indianapolis.
“For more than 30 years, The Children's Museum has been celebrating this important and historic holiday with the goal to inspire children to learn about other cultures and celebrations.”
—President and CEO Jennifer Pace Robinson
Here are some highlights from the day...
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Activities and experiences
- Screening of Juneteenth: The Galveston Story
Special showing of the documentary film, Juneteenth: The Galveston Story, by Sam Collins III and Sam Addington (learn more about Juneteenth in Galveston, TX). - Giveaways (while supplies last)
- Local artist showcase
- Marketplace shopping
- Community resource information
- Dresses from Miss Indy Juneteenth
Live performances
- Portia Jackson—Emancipation Celebrations
Storyteller Portia Jackson will give a historic overview of the emancipation proclamation and the celebrations of freedom that have followed. - Griot Drum Ensemble
This extraordinary group of musicians brings African storytelling and music to life in a dynamic way. - Major Taylor Band
Indy’s own PJ Majors and his Major Taylor Band bring soulful R & B to Juneteenth Jamboree.
Activities
- Juneteenth Trivia
Test your knowledge and learn more about Juneteenth. - Murals for Justice
Explore reproductions of murals across the nation and experience being a muralist. - Miss Indy Juneteeth Sashes of Affirmation
Learn about the Crown H.E.R. Miss Indy Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant. Create sashes of affirmations celebrating you! - Eli Lilly and Company Visiting Scientist Dr. Carlotta Berry
Tinker with 3-D printed robots and learn from Eli Lilly and Company Visiting Scientist Dr. Carlotta Berry.
Visual art opportunities
- My History Academia with Wavy Blayne
Create anime style portraits of Black historical figures. - Flag Facts with Amiah Mims
Discover the symbolism within the Juneteenth flag and create your own. - Visiting Artist program
Discover the world of mixed media!
Community resources
- Community Initiatives Information Table
Discover free and reduced ways to visit the museum, our free career and academic success program, and community youth programs. - Indiana529
Multiple winners were awarded Indiana529 account contributions. - Adelante Schools at Emma Donnon
Learn about how this tuition free K–8 public charter school on the southside of Indianapolis is making a difference!
Juneteenth Jamboree is the first Saturday in June and free to the public. Tickets are required and available here.
The Eli Lilly and Company Visiting Scientist is made possible through the extraordinary philanthropic support provided by the Eli Lilly and Company Foundation.
The Visiting Artist Program is a project of the Lechleiter Indiana Visiting Artist Fund with support provided by The White Oak Foundation, Sarah and John Lechleiter.
