What comes to mind when you think of Juneteenth? For many of us in the Black community, this holiday is a time for family and friends to congregate and honor our ancestry. The name is a portmanteau of “June” and “19th” and is widely commemorated as the day enslaved Black people in the United States learned that they had been set free. We use the legacy of the forced African diaspora as an opportunity to strengthen our interpersonal bonds. We eat food, share stories about our lives, and listen to great music. Juneteenth is also the time to uplift the next generations with life lessons and words of encouragement. 

Long before its recognition as a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth was the perfect day to attend a parade with loved ones or have a cookout – a time-honored Black tradition in its own rite. Now, families of all cultures should feel empowered to learn about our collective history and pay respects to the children, women, and men whose lives were exploited amid the bitter construct of slavery. In this ever-changing world, there is something extraordinary about the steadfastness of Black Americans, and the Juneteenth holiday perfectly encapsulates this. Gather with your loved ones this year to eat, laugh, and most importantly, cherish each other.

What vegan family cookout would be complete without the deliciousness of a veggie burger? Brands like Gardein and Beyond Burger are perfect because these products can be grilled or prepared indoors. Add a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar to your packet of Beyond plant-based meat, shape into patties, cook or grill to perfection, then serve on a tasty Unbun. Garnish with chopped red onions, ketchup, mustard, and a slice of Violife mature cheddar vegan cheese. If hot dogs are more your speed, spark up the barbie and throw on a few Lightlife or Field Roast vegan hot dogs. Enjoy yours on a Food for Life hot dog bun. 

Nothing enhances your cookout like a delicious side dish. Whether it’s a leafy green salad with grapefruit slices, Asian sesame dressing, and garlic slivers, or a delightful vegan potato salad, the side dish is a must-have. You’ll love Tabitha Brown’s recipe, from her kitchen to yours.

There are few things more refreshing on a hot summer’s day than a cold glass of sunshine. Elevate this summer staple by adding slices of fresh ginger and a pinch of ginger powder, then sweeten with agave or raw sugar. The citrus plays well against the spice, which is shown to aid in digestion. Serve over mint-infused ice cubes for an added burst of flavor.

Even vegans can lose themselves in the sweetness of a frozen, non-dairy dessert. So Delicious offers several irresistible options, including its Salted Caramel Cluster made with cashew milk. This flavor boasts chocolate, cashew bits, and a gooey caramel swirl, or treat yourself and your family to any of Ben and Jerry’s non-dairy dessert options. Mint Chocolate Cookie is subtle and soothing on a hot day.

Whether your family loves good conversation or beautiful singing, there are outstanding options to keep your guests entertained. “For Colored Nerds: Watermelon and Red Birds” is an excellent podcast episode to play in the background. Cookbook author Nicole Taylor is interviewed, and the show touches on the importance of food in Black cultural observances and celebrations. To keep the vibe upbeat, charm your friends and family with one of many Juneteenth playlists.