Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This pivotal moment in history is a celebration of freedom, resilience, and cultural heritage.
Whether you’re honoring Juneteenth through reflection, community engagement, or cultural expression, remember: meaningful celebration doesn’t have to come with financial strain. Here are impactful, affordable ways to honor Juneteenth without taking on more credit card debt.
Affordable Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth Without Going Into Debt
1. Host a Community Potluck Featuring Black Cuisine
Bring people together this Juneteenth for a community potluck. Encourage friends, family, and neighbors to bring Black soul food dishes like Southern baked mac and cheese, collard greens, black eye peas, corn bread, sweet potato pie, and peach cobbler. Although there are free resources available online, don’t forget you can visit your local library for an African American soul food cookbook. This communal approach reduces the cost of hosting and encourages the sharing of diverse culinary traditions. Consider organizing the potluck in a local park or a community center. You could even work with neighbors to create a block party celebration.
Tip: Visit your local library for cookbooks or museum passes to deepen the cultural experience.
ACCC Insight: Hosting something big? Use a free budgeting worksheet to estimate your food costs, assign shared contributions, and stay on track.
2. Attend or Organize a Juneteenth Parade
Many cities host Juneteenth parades featuring vibrant floats, music, and cultural performances. Participating in or attending a parade is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the day’s celebratory spirit and is often free. If your community doesn’t have a parade, consider organizing one with local schools, churches, or community groups. Parades can be a cost-effective way to engage the community and showcase local talent and creativity!
ACCC Insight: If you’re struggling with bills, fun community events like this can lift your spirits, without overspending. If you are looking for further help with credit card debt help look at Debt Management Plans from ACCC. They can help simplify payments so you can enjoy life more fully.
3. Visit a Local Museum or Cultural Center
Exploring the historical and cultural significance of Juneteenth can be both educational and inspiring. Many museums and cultural centers offer free or discounted admission on Juneteenth, providing an excellent opportunity to learn more about African American history and contributions. Check out local exhibits or events that focus on the Civil Rights Movement, African American art, or local history to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the day’s importance. Check your local library to see if they have museum passes, and if the museums near you are not offering any discounts.
ACCC Insight: Being financially responsible doesn’t mean missing out on experiences. Our counselors can help you create a spending plan that aligns with your values and lifestyle.
4. Host a Juneteenth Movie Night
Organize a movie night featuring films and documentaries that highlight African American history, culture, and achievements. Choose films that spark meaningful conversations about race, equality, and social justice. Create a welcoming atmosphere with your family and friends with blankets and snacks, for a night of reflection and learning. Streaming platforms often offer a variety of relevant films that can be accessed at little to no cost. If you plan to host the movie night outside, you’ll need a projector and screen if you don’t have a big enough TV. Consider shopping around and looking for a good deal on a projector and screen. You could also ask around and see if any of your friends or family have one you could use for the night. Perhaps a local theater already has something planned that you and your friends could go to, make sure you do your research before you commit to buying any equipment.
Tip from ACCC: Use platforms like CreditU, our mobile app, to track entertainment spending and avoid overspending on “just one night.
5. Support Black-Owned Businesses
Supporting Black-owned businesses is a powerful way to honor the legacy of Juneteenth. Make a conscious effort to shop at local Black-owned stores, dine at Black-owned restaurants, or use services provided by Black entrepreneurs. If you’re unsure where to start, many online directories and social media platforms can help you discover Black-owned businesses in your area. This support not only boosts the local economy but also strengthens community ties.
6. Participate in a Community Service Project
Juneteenth is an ideal time to give back to the community and reflect on the values of freedom and equality. Organize or participate in a community service project that helps the black community. These activities provide a sense of purpose and gratitude while helping to create a positive impact in your community. They are also an excellent way to involve people of all ages in meaningful service. Contact local community groups or churches to see what volunteering opportunities are near you.
7. Attend Educational Workshops or Seminars
Many communities host workshops, seminars, or panel discussions focused on topics related to racial equality, social justice, and African American history during Juneteenth. These events often feature guest speakers, historians, and activists who share valuable insights and encourage dialogue. Attending these sessions can broaden your perspective and offer practical ways to support ongoing efforts toward equality and justice.
8. Create Art Inspired by Juneteenth
Express your creativity by creating art inspired by the themes of freedom, resilience, and heritage. Whether it’s painting, drawing, writing poetry, or crafting, art provides a powerful medium for reflection and expression. Consider hosting an art session with friends and family, where everyone can create their piece and share its meaning. This activity is not only cost-effective but also deeply personal and rewarding.
Budget-Friendly Creativity: Repurpose old art materials or shop second-hand. When every dollar matters, small changes count.
9. Celebrate with Music
Music has always been an important part of Black culture. From the blues to R&B, have a jam-out session with your family and friends. Hear and feel the history of African American culture through music. Although there are plenty of playlists online that exist, you could challenge yourself to learn more by researching and creating your own playlist for your event.
Celebrate Juneteenth with Purpose – No More Debt
Juneteenth is a time to reflect, connect, and celebrate. At American Consumer Credit Counseling, we believe everyone should be able to participate in meaningful moments without the weight of financial stress.
If you’re carrying high-interest credit card debt or feeling overwhelmed, ACCC can help. We offer:
- Free credit counseling sessions
- Personalized budgeting tools
- A structured Debt Management Program that could lower your interest rates and combine payments into one
- Access to the CreditU app to manage your plan and stay on track
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
