The Charlotte area is gearing up for a variety of Juneteenth celebrations to honor Black freedom and the end of slavery in the United States.

The June 19 federal holiday commemorates June 19, 1865, when news of their emancipation finally reached 250,000 enslaved people in Galveston, Texas – long after President Abraham Lincoln announced the Emancipation Proclamation on Sept. 22, 1862.

Charlotte’s Juneteenth events offer the opportunity to create community connections for newcomers and longtime residents alike, with tours, festivals and more.

Here are some events to check out:

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