Juneteenth Jubilee
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Thursday, June 18, 2026

Nomination Application

Application Deadline: April 24, 2026 at 11:59pm

Essay Contest Application

Application Deadline: April 24, 2026 at 11:59pm

Formerly known as the Community Builders Appreciation Banquet. This event is hosted on the 3rd Thursday of every June. The community comes together to recognize individuals nominated along with our 3 high school essay contest winners. 

Our award ceremony celebrates individuals nominated by their community members. All nominees must reside in the state of Iowa and fulfill the requirements of each category.

• James Durham Health Practitioner of The Year Award
• Iowa Citizen of The Year Award
• Mary McLeod Bethune Education Award
• Rocky Weston Gospel Award
• Jesse F. Taylor Advocacy Award
• Liberty Award

Click the applications above to nominate. Each awardee will be notified by May 15, 2026. 

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Juneteenth Jubilee Registration
An Evening of Culture, Connection & Celebration

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Juneteenth Jubilee, where history, culture, and community come together at the State Historical Building in Des Moines. This signature celebration honors the legacy of Iowa Juneteenth while creating space for meaningful connection, conversation, and collective impact.

Guests will enjoy live music and entertainment that sets the tone for a vibrant and inspiring night. Light refreshments will be available, offering the perfect setting to relax, connect, and celebrate together. The evening will feature an awards ceremony and the opportunity to explore the historical memorabilia and cultural displays that honor the journey and resilience behind Iowa Juneteenth.

Throughout the event, guests are invited to participate in a silent auction, showcasing products from local emerging business owners, non-profits organization, and corporate sponsors. The proceeds will support Iowa Juneteenth programming, including scholarships, education initiatives, and year-round community engagement. Whether you’re reconnecting with familiar faces or building new relationships, the Jubilee offers intentional opportunities for networking and community connection in a space designed for shared purpose.

Secure your ticket, bring a friend, and be part of an evening that celebrates freedom while building community.

Jubilee Ticket

$50.00

Ticket includes:

• (1) seat at a table of 8

Event: Juneteenth Jubilee Banquet

Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026

Location: State Historical Building, 600 E Locust St., Des Moines, Iowa

Time:

• 5pm - Networking
• 6pm - Banquet Begins

*All tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable to the next year. No tickets will be shipped. Your name will be added to the list for check in when you arrive.

If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Purchase

Jubilee Ticket VIP

$100.00

Ticket includes:

• (1) seat at a table of 8

Event: Juneteenth Jubilee Banquet

Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026

Location: State Historical Building, 600 E Locust St., Des Moines, Iowa

Time:

• 5pm - Networking
• 6pm - Banquet Begins

*All tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable to the next year. No tickets will be shipped. Your name will be added to the list for check in when you arrive.

If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Purchase

Jubilee Table

$400.00

Ticket includes:

• (8) Seats for a full table

Event: Juneteenth Jubilee Banquet

Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026

Location: State Historical Building, 600 E Locust St., Des Moines, Iowa

Time:

• 5pm - Networking
• 6pm - Banquet Begins

*All tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable to the next year. No tickets will be shipped. Your name will be added to the list for check in when you arrive.

If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Purchase

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