June ushers in a whole summer of celebrations. On June 19, we celebrate the federal holiday Juneteenth, which commemorates emancipation of enslaved African Americans. There are a variety of Juneteenth celebrations happening around Greater Des Moines all month long, and we’ve compiled your go-to guide!
June 7:
Embrace the Race 5k: All Inclusion Movement Race
Location: Raccoon River Park Trail
Time: 12:30 p.m. activities begin, 2 p.m. race start
What: Run, walk, or roll in this all-inclusive 5k, kicking off Juneteenth celebrations across the metro! Registration includes a race bib/chip-timed event, a book supporting diverse authors, and live music/activities on race day.
June 13:
Ames’ Juneteenth Celebration
Location: Bandshell Park, 125 E. 5th St., Ames
Time: 12:30-5 p.m.
What: Celebrate African American culture in Ames with an afternoon of live music, food vendors, arts & crafts, and so much more.
June 15:
Iowa Juneteenth Soiree
Location: Palms Restaurant, 1905 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines
Time: 5-7 p.m.
What: Enjoy an evening out at Palms on Ingersoll with a specialty buffet and cocktail included in your ticket, celebrating the culinary dishes rooted in Afro-Caribbean culture.
June 18:
Juneteenth Jubilee
Location: State Historical Building, 600 East Locust, Des Moines
Time: 5 p.m. social hour, 6 p.m. event start
What: Commemorate Juneteenth with an entire event dedicated to local community members and organizations who keep Iowa diverse and inclusive. Listen to live music, attend an awards ceremony, and walk through historical displays. Single and table tickets are available for purchase.
June 19:
Juneteenth Charity Golf Outing
Location: Top Golf, 7680 Coachlight Drive, West Des Moines
Time: 7 a.m.-12 p.m.
What: Score big with a block party game at Top Golf! The whole outfield will earn you points, so keep an eye out on the scoreboard for fun prizes. Admission also includes light refreshments until they’re gone.
Juneteenth Poetry Jam
Location: xBk Live, 1159 24th Street, Des Moines
Time: 7 p.m.
What: Join New City Poets for their second annual Juneteenth Poetry Jam with special performances, open mic opportunities, and more.
June 20:
Neighbor’s Day Celebration
Location: Western Gateway Park, 1000 Grand Avenue
Time: noon-6 p.m.
What: Live entertainment, kids activities, local food vendors, small business shopping, health and wellness resources, and more all come together in this block party-like event right in the heart of downtown Des Moines.
Now-June 18:
Des Moines Public Library Juneteenth Events
Location: Varies
What: Kids, teens, and adults can participate in a variety of Juneteenth events provided by the Des Moines Public Library.
June 19:
Hope+Elim Juneteenth Celebration: Bridging the Divide
Location: Hope+Elim Church, 2500 University Avenue, Des Moines
Time: 6-8 p.m.
What: A powerful celebration featuring keynote speaker, Daryl Davis, inspiring conversations about racial divides and empowering community through Christ.
October 10:
Slay the Runway Show
Location: 4800 Merle Hay Rd., Des Moines
Time: noon doors open; event starts at 1 p.m.
What: This kids-only fashion runway show allows children to embrace their diversity and empower them to build confidence while learning important topics along the way,
October 22:
Nocturnal Science Night
Location: Science Center of Iowa, 401 West MLK Pkwy, Des Moines
Time: 5-8 p.m.
What: A free, family-friendly event celebrating the world of science at our very own Science Center of Iowa.
For more information on these events and more, check out the Iowa Juneteenth website here.
