In Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, Union Major General Gordon Granger announced the official end of slavery and declared the enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation. The longest-running African-American holiday in the United States, “Juneteenth” earned federal recognition status on June 17, 2021.
In Indianapolis, the celebration takes on a decidedly local twist. Planned for June 12 in 2026 from 4:30 to 8 pm, the Juneteenth Foodways Festival at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site shines a spotlight on the story of Dolly Johnson. The renowned Black chef and caterer followed President Harrison to the White House in 1889, where she made a name for herself through her all-American cuisine. Johnson went on to serve not just Harrison but several subsequent administrations as well.
Now in its fifth year, the Indianapolis Juneteenth event gives visitors a delicious chance to see, taste, and experience some of the lasting impacts Johnson made on Black history through her cuisine. The 2026 party features a grouping of more than 35 new and returning partners, each offering their own unique food and drink samples. Retail vendors, community partners, live music, and cooking demonstrations on the Dolly Johnson Legacy Stage round out the festivities.
Fun for all ages, the Juneteenth Foodways Festival is sponsored by the Eli Lilly and Company Foundation. Admission is free, but registration is highly encouraged for planning purposes with Early Access Passes available. For more information, go to bhpsite.org.
