Juneteenth is coming up on Thursday, June 19, and in honor of the federal holiday, the Upstate is hosting various events to engage the community and commemorate the legacy of emancipation.

Friday, June 13

Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala | 6-11:59 p.m. | Embassy Suites by Hilton Greenville Golf Resort & Conference Center at Verdae | $125+ | This event honors the legacy of Juneteenth while celebrating Black leaders in our area.

Saturday, June 14

Juneteenth Run, Ride, and Recover for Veterans | Saturday, June 14-Sunday, June 15 | Times vary | Various locations | Partake in a bike ride, a cycle bar ride, a 5K run, and a line dancing party.

A Blu-Phi Freedom Celebration | 11 a.m.-6 p.m. | Rocky Creek Community Park, Simpsonville | Enjoy blue crab, crab legs, and a Lowcountry boil in honor of Juneteenth.

Monday, June 16

Juneteenth GVL Homeownership Empowerment Initiative: "Keys To Freedom" | 4-7 p.m. | Phillis Wheatley Community Center | Free | Discover how to achieve homeownership and financial freedom at this event in partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County.

Thursday, June 19

Fourth Annual Juneteenth Celebration | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | Various locations | Free | Community leaders will lead a commemorative walk from Falls Park to Unity Park before a keynote at the Prisma Health Welcome Center and a panel presentation with lunch from local food trucks to follow.

I AM an Artist – Free Juneteenth Youth Art Table | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Mattoon Presbyterian Church | Free | Paint rocks + create affirmation cards as you enjoy a meal of okra, black-eyed peas, watermelon, hibiscus tea, and ginger water.

Red, White, Blue, and Black | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Greenville Technical College — Main Campus | Free, registration required | Enjoy a day of remembrance, conversation, culture, and celebration.

Friday, June 20

Celebrate Juneteenth | 6:30-9 p.m. | Vibez Bar + Lounge, Taylors | $13+ | Sip, paint, and vibe along with music.

Saturday, June 21

Juneteenth: A Cultural Celebration | 5-9 p.m. | Mauldin Cultural Center, Mauldin | Free | Experience an outdoor market, food trucks, and live performances at this community event.