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Events

Join us in honoring the past, celebrating the present, and shaping the future.

4th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival

Join us for the 4th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival at Whitney Plantation on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Admission is FREE (registration required) to this special event that honors the history and culture of Black communities while celebrating freedom through education and community engagement.

Experience a day at Whitney Plantation, the only plantation museum in Louisiana dedicated to telling the story of slavery. You’ll enjoy live performances, engaging panel discussions, and educational storytelling that connects the past to the present. Stroll through our vibrant artist and artisan marketplace showcasing local Black artists and craftspeople and enjoy delicious offerings from some of the region’s best food trucks. Plus, explore Whitney Plantation with a self-guided tour – just download our app.

Festival highlights:

  • Special appearance by celebrated chef and cookbook author Toya Boudy.
  • Live musical performances by Tara Alexander, The Maroons Band, and Pastor Steven Perrilloux.
  • Panel discussion led by Dr. Nyoki Cosey-Brown, licensed clinical social worker and community leaderl Ms. Leona Tate, a civil rights pioneer from New Orleans and one of the first Black children in the United States to desegregate a public school; and Mr. Michael McClanahan, president of the Louisiana State Conference of the NAACP, National Board Member, and President of the Baton Rouge NAACP branch.
  • Kids’ Zone features interactive activities with Louisiana Children’s Museum and more.
  • Artist and artisan marketplace showcasing local Black creators.
  • Food trucks serving local cuisine.
  • Shop & Save in Whitney’s Gift Store with 19% off throughout the day.
  • FREE self-guided tours of Whitney Plantation.

This family-friendly event will feature interactive activities for all ages, making it a meaningful and immersive way to commemorate Juneteenth.

Special Thanks to Our Generous Sponsor:

REV

And to Our Community Partners:

  • Louisiana Children’s Museum
  • Historic New Orleans Collection
  • St. Charles Library
  • St. John Library

  • APPLY NOW to be considered to become a vendor at the 4th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival!
  • SIGN UP to volunteer! You’ll be provided drinks, snacks, lunch, a t-shirt, and a gift certificate for a future visit to Whitney Plantation. If you need your volunteer hours certified, we will provide a certificate.