Oakland Cemetery is one of Atlanta’s most inclusive institutions. Everyone is invited to participate in the 2022 Juneteenth activities, regardless of race or religion.
The events listed below require advance registration — do not delay! Sign up quickly, as spots are going fast, and the earliest dates are already sold out.
Juneteenth marks the end of slavery in the United States. It commemorates the date of June 19, 1865, when the last African-American slaves held in Confederate states were finally freed by the Union army, in Galveston, Texas. Six months later, the Thirteenth Amendment officially made slavery illegal throughout the entire United States. Juneteenth has been observed since 1866.
This year, Juneteenth takes on a more reflective, serious tone, as the Atlanta community grapples with social justice issues.
You may also be interested in a more complete list of 2022 Juneteenth observances.
We Shall Overcome Walking Tour
June 19th thru 30th
FREE to attend with advance reservation
The annual Juneteenth tradition of FREE tours is back at Oakland this year! To allow more people to participate, the tours are spread out over weekdays and weekends this year. View a complete list of dates and times.
From the website:
“This tour explores the lives and accomplishments of outstanding and ordinary African Americans who fought to overcome the effects of slavery and discrimination to help shape the history of Atlanta.”
While the tour is free, you must sign up in advance via Eventbrite for a specific date and time.
The tours are limited in size. They will happen rain or shine, but may be canceled in the event of severe weather. Donations are encouraged.
Tour dates — all tours are 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.:
Sunday, June 19th
Tuesday, June 21st
Thursday, June 23rd
Sunday, June 26th
Thursday, June 30th
All tours start at the Front Gate (main entrance at Oakland Avenue and MLK Jr. Drive). Please arrive a few minutes early to check in at the volunteer desk inside the Visitors Center (located in the parking lot).
The African-American burial grounds at Oakland Cemetery
Black Magnolias Walking Tour
June 19th through 26th
FREE to attend with advance reservation
This guided walking tour moves beyond the historical stereotypes to explore the history, lives, and labors of Atlanta’s African American women.
Reserve a FREE ticket now via Eventbrite
Tour dates — all tours at 6 p.m.:
- Sunday, June 19
- Tuesday, June 21
- Sunday, June 26
All tours start at the Front Gate (main entrance at Oakland Avenue and MLK Jr. Drive). Please arrive a few minutes early to check in at the volunteer desk inside the Visitors Center (located in the parking lot).
Storytelling Hour for Kids
June 22 and 28
FREE, no reservation required
Join storyteller Deborah Strahorn for an hour of interactive tales and music at Oakland. This event is recommended for ages 5-12.
Meet in the North Public Grounds – picnic blankets are encouraged!
Storytelling dates:
Wednesday, June 22 (10:00)
Tuesday, June 28 (10:00)
More events around metro Atlanta:
Sunday, January 29, 2023
Sunday, February 5, 2023
Sunday, February 12, 2023
Saturday, February 18, 2023
