Juneteenth events around Salt Lake City

Utah is starting Juneteenth a few days early to take advantage of the weekend.

• The holiday commemorates June 19, 1865 — the day enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally got word that President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation two years prior.

Here's how you can join the party:

Utah Juneteenth Freedom Festival is the state's oldest and biggest celebration of the holiday, with performances by Pastor Troy , J Holiday and other artists; braid and barber battles; a children's talent show ; a Father's Day car show and more.

• When: 4pm–8pm Friday and noon to 9pm Saturday and Sunday
• Where: Ogden Amphitheater

Millcreek's celebration includes live performances, a spoken word competition, kids' activities, a market, food trucks and games.

• When: 6pm–10pm Sunday
• Where: Millcreek Common

The University of Utah will honor the day with a flag-raising ceremony featuring speakers and music.

• When: 9:30am Wednesday
• Where: 201 Presidents Circle

SLC's Juneteenth celebration and Black-owned business expo brings together entertainers, roller skating, art, a pop-up museum, kids activities and merchants.

• When: 11am–8pm Wednesday
• Where: The Gateway

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