Juneteenth is a U.S. federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Deriving its name from combining “June” and “nineteenth”, it is celebrated on the anniversary of General Order No. 3, issued by Major General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865, proclaiming freedom for slaves in Texas. Originating in Galveston, Juneteenth has since been observed annually in various parts of the United States, often broadly celebrating African American culture. The day was first recognized as a federal holiday in 2021 when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law.

At 6:00 pm: Enjoy some light appetizers (to tide you over or as your dinner), a drink (full bar, plus non-alcoholic options. The Juneteenth Shabbat Bar is sponsored by Mr. Saumil Parikh of Band Baaja Entertainment, LLC.), and connect with your community.

Kids are always welcome, and they’ll be able to eat before (and after) the service, play Connect 4, Jenga, and cornhole games, create at a coloring table, and do other arts & crafts activities.

6:30 pm – Our Shabbat service begins, featuring the music of Lapidus & Myles (you may remember them from their visit earlier this year).