Honoring History with Heart

Juneteenth, observed each year on June 19th, commemorates the moment in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas learned they were free—over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. It’s a day of liberation, resilience, and reflection, deeply rooted in the African American experience.

At Dabney & Co., Juneteenth isn’t just a moment on the calendar—it’s a cultural heartbeat. It’s a celebration of the ancestors, the struggles they endured, and the beauty they created from the ashes of oppression. It’s about honoring their spirit in a space where Black excellence, art, and music come alive.

The Soundtrack of Freedom

Music has always been central to the Black freedom story. From the spirituals sung in fields to the gospel choirs that lifted voices in praise, from the blues of Bessie Smith to the soul of Sam Cooke—every note is an echo of survival and joy. On Juneteenth, we pay homage through sound.

At Dabney & Co., expect the walls to pulse with the timeless power of Black music. The playlists are curated with care, weaving through generations—from the gospel chords of Mahalia Jackson to the funk grooves of James Brown, and the conscious soul of Nina Simone. Each song reminds us: freedom isn’t just a moment—it’s a movement.

“You can cage the singer, but not the song.” — Harry Belafonte

A Celebration of Culture & Community

Juneteenth at Dabney & Co. brings people together. It’s not just about remembering the past—it’s about celebrating how far we’ve come and where we’re headed. The ambiance is electric: conversations spark between strangers, laughter bubbles over clinking glasses, and stories flow like a well-aged bourbon.

From locally inspired cocktails to live music tributes, the energy is always intentional. Guests gather to celebrate not only emancipation, but also the vibrance of Black culture—its fashion, its flavors, and its fire.

Don’t be surprised if you find a spoken word artist commanding the mic with raw truth, or a jazz trio playing a stirring rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” That’s what Juneteenth feels like at Dabney & Co.—a place where reverence and revelry meet.

Michigan Roots, Global Resonance

Michigan’s rich musical history is deeply entwined with Black artistry. From the Motown legends of Detroit to the gospel powerhouses of Grand Rapids, this state has been a cradle of cultural expression. At Dabney & Co., we draw from that wellspring—honoring not only national icons but local voices who’ve helped shape the sound of freedom.

This connection to place makes Juneteenth especially resonant. It’s a time to reflect on Michigan’s own legacy of activism, artistry, and African American pride.

Creating Space for Meaningful Moments

The experience of Juneteenth at Dabney & Co. is curated with love. Every detail—from the music to the décor to the featured cocktails—tells a story. Whether you come to dance, to listen, or simply to be in the presence of community, the space invites you to feel, connect, and celebrate.

Looking to host your own Juneteenth-inspired gathering? Dabney & Co. offers the perfect setting. Imagine an evening steeped in soul—where curated playlists stir the heart, custom drinks uplift the mood, and your guests leave not just entertained, but moved.

Join the Celebration

This Juneteenth, and every Juneteenth to come, Dabney & Co. welcomes you into a space of remembrance and rejoicing. Come ready to raise a glass, lift your voice, and be part of a living tradition that honors the past while embracing the future.

Because freedom deserves more than recognition—it deserves a celebration worthy of the journey.