DES MOINES, Iowa — Millions are expected to celebrate Juneteenth across the U.S. Thursday and organizers are preparing festivities here in the metro.

Declared a national holiday in 2021, Juneteenth celebrates the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. For decades the day has been celebrated through services, festivals, and more.

Hope + Elim has held several events in the days leading up to Juneteenth and has a service planned for the Thursday. Through live music and several guest speakers, including keynote speaker Dr. Ian Roberts, the history of Juneteenth will be shared along with the goals for the future.

Hope + Elim Campus Pastor Brian Brown says this event is different than a typical Sunday service.

“We’ve hosted MLK, we host, we almost like the epicenter for these community hosted events of coming together,” said Brown. “Being in the urban core, we get to serve folks near the grub and folks who are, you know, downtown and people who have been displaced and I think it’s essential to Des Moines.”

Faith in Freedom: Set to Free to Serve takes place at Hope + Elim from 6 to 8 p.m. The events will also be livestreamed on the Hope + Elim YouTube.

Other Juneteenth celebrations happening across the metro include,

Free Showing of “Moonlight”

Released in 2016, “Moonlight” tells the story of a young African American man who grapples with his sexuality and identity while living through the everyday struggles of childhood, adolescence and adulthood.

• Where: Fleur Cinema, 4545 Fleur Drive, Des Moines
• When: 9 p.m.

Black Women 4 Healthy Living

Hosting their fifth annual Juneteenth tea, the non-profit will explore this year’s theme “Fearfully and Wonderfully Made.” During the luncheon Keynote speaker La-Tica Paige will share.

• Where: Grand View University Student Center, 2811 East 14th Street, Des Moines
• When: Noon to 1:30 p.m.

Juneteenth Jubilee

The Iowa Juneteenth Observance banquet features music and refreshments during a community appreciation award ceremony, a high school scholarship award ceremony, a historical Juneteenth display, a silent auction and a community forum discussion.

• Where: State Historical Building, 600 East Locust Street, Des Moines
• When: 5 p.m.
• Admission: $35

Juneteenth Comedy Jam

The Juneteenth set features comedian Dannie Tee, Benard Bell, Clif Antoine and Quionez Berry and is hosted by Perry Thompson lll. Dannie Tee, named funniest person in Iowa, headlines the event.

• Where: Bash, 1312 Locust Street, Des Moines
• When: 7 p.m.
• Admission: $10 online, $15 at door