Celebrate Juneteenth with Sorrel Tea—a Vibrant Brew of Heritage & Resilience

When the heat sets in, I can’t think of anything more refreshing than a chilled glass of sorrel tea—a floral, tart and spiced drink that carries deep historical and cultural significance. While sorrel tea, also known as hibiscus tea, is commonly enjoyed throughout the Caribbean and West Africa (including Senegal, Ghana and Nigeria), I’ve often brought it to Juneteenth celebrations in Texas where the tradition of the drink runs deep.

Juneteenth is a holiday that commemorates the end of enslavement in the United States. As a Houstonian, the meaning of June 19, 1865—the day when enslaved people in Texas were officially declared free, years after other enslaved people in the United States—resonates deeply with me. With Galveston Island just down the road, the origins of this celebration feel especially present in our community. 

It is a time of remembrance, joy and community, and one of its most striking traditions is the presence of red foods and drinks at celebrations. From barbecue, red velvet cake and watermelon to strawberry soda and sorrel tea, red foods have become a powerful symbol of freedom, resilience and cultural heritage in African American communities. My family is from Jamaica, but I was born in the United States and have lived in Texas for nearly my entire life. I’ve been to many Juneteenth celebrations, and brought sorrel tea as my contribution to the cookout. 

The color red holds great historical and spiritual significance in African traditions. When enslaved Africans were forcibly brought to the United States, they carried these traditions with them, and over time, red foods became a meaningful way to honor those who came before and those who fought for freedom and justice.

During Juneteenth, red foods serve as a tribute to the bloodshed and sacrifices of enslaved people, a reminder of their endurance and the struggle for liberation. But they also represent joy, vitality and the celebration of freedom. The presence of these foods at cookouts and gatherings is a way to connect generations, preserving traditions while sharing history with future ones. Sorrel tea fits perfectly into this tradition. Its deep crimson hue and bold flavors make it a refreshing and symbolic drink to enjoy on Juneteenth and beyond. 

I continued to preserve that tradition with my grandmother last fall, when I got to try sorrel tea that she had made for the first time. My brother, my boyfriend and I visited her in Jamaica and got to spend some time with her. Being welcomed by my grandmother included open arms, a big smile and a glass of tea. We sat outside on a hot and humid day, but full glasses of sorrel tea and catching up over conversation kept us cool. 

Beyond its historical meaning, sorrel tea is a burst of flavor in every sip—bright hibiscus, zesty citrus, warming spices and just a hint of sweetness create the ultimate balance of refreshing and bold. It’s a drink that feels celebratory, cooling and nourishing all at once. Additionally, because the tea is slightly reduced with sugar, it thickens ever so slightly for a really nice sipping texture. 

Drinking sorrel tea with my grandmother on her veranda, looking out at the Caribbean Sea was an experience I am glad to have had with her. She gave me some pointers on my own batches, which have been a base for making mead and kombucha at home. This drink will always represent a celebration of life and family to me, and I hope you find as much joy in it as I do.