Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. Also known as Jubilee Day, Emancipation Day, and Freedom Day, Juneteenth has been celebrated since 1865 but was only officially recognized as a federal holiday in 2021.
Learn more about the Juneteenth holiday with this kid-friendly printable set of fun activities prepared by Buncombe County. They also have a reading list for all ages.
For Juneteenth, Buncombe County libraries will be hosting a puppet show at four libraries that intertwines the folktales of Brer Rabbit with the life of Leah, a freed enslaved woman. Leah and the Rabbit sparks conversation around appropriation, emancipation, and the forgotten stories of the people enslaved by the Vance family. An American Myth Center production, this piece was written, created, and directed by local artist Mikayla Wilson. This free program is for children of all ages and will be featured at the following libraries.
- Saturday, June 10 at 11 a.m. at the Fairview Library
- Saturday, June 10 at 2 p.m. at the Leicester Library
- Saturday, June 24 at 11 a.m. at the Swannanoa Library
- Saturday, June 24 at 2 p.m. at Pack Memorial Library
Visit your local library for more books, movies, and music to celebrate Juneteenth with your family and friends.
Written by Buncombe County.