Celebrating Juneteenth: Events and Parades Across the Nation

Although Juneteenth goes as far back as 1985, it wasn’t until recently that it was made official by Joe Biden in 2021. The holiday, a name that is made from a combinatiton of June and nineteenth, commemorates the emancipation of African-American slavery in the U.S. Its inauguration into an official holiday made it even bigger and more imprtnatt for the Black Community. With increased support and attention, along with more reporting and emphasis on the celebration, it’s set to be even bigger and better in the coming years.

According to the Society for Public Health Education, "Making Juneteenth a federal holiday is a major step forward to recognize the wrongs of the past,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said in a statement, “but we must continue to work to ensure equal justice and fulfill the promise of the Emancipation Proclamation and our Constitution." If you are looking for some events to add to your calendar for Juneteenth, here are some events you will want to consider!

Here are Juneteenth events and parades nationwide that can help you and your family celebrate this amazing milestone for the Black Community:

The Kissimmee Juneteenth Festival in Florida

The Kissimmee Juneteenth Festival is a free annual event at Lakefront Park to honor the end of African-American slavery in the United States. It’s a joyous event with live music, delectable cuisine, a Kid Power Zone, and various craft vendors. The 2023  Kissimmee festival, held on June 17th, continued the tradition of being a lively and family-friendly affair.

Under the guidance of emcee Tight Mike, attendees enjoyed laughter and entertainment, accompanied by the soulful tunes of R&B singer, Christopher Williams. The event served as a moment of unity, as the community gathered to reflect on the significance of Juneteenth while revelling in the rich African-American heritage.

As we reflect on the success of this year’s festivities, mark your calendar for next year’s Juneteenth Festival in Kissimmee. While exact details are yet to be unveiled, next year’s date is already out: Saturday, June 15th, 2024. Stay tuned on the official website for updates.

The Creative Suitland’s Juneteenth Arts and Cultural Festival is a two-day celebration hosted by Creative Suitland, an arts-based community program. The event hosts are focused on defining the cultural and creative spirit of the Maryland community. The event not only commemorates the end of slavery but also pays homage to the numerous achievements of African Americans that often go uncredited.

This year’s festival was held on June 17th and 18th. It was a dynamic blend of cultural enrichment and artistic expression. The festival started with an art gallery opening reception, setting the stage for a weekend filled with creativity and community.

A notable highlight was the "The Poppaw Queen Documentary" First Look Screening, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to delve into a compelling narrative. The festival also hosted a thought-provoking panel discussion, "Honoring our Ancestors: Healing through Reparative Justice, Art, and Community Activism,"

The second day unfolded with a Farmer's Market featuring a blend of poetry performances, guest speakers, a live band, and a DJ set. The festivities culminated in a captivating Drum Circle and Live Performance, infusing the atmosphere with the spirit of celebration.

While details for next year’s festival are yet to be announced, the anticipation is already building. Subscribe to their website to ensure you stay in the loop.

Manhattan Beach is gearing up to commemorate Juneteenth next year, and the City Council is inviting the public to shape this historic celebration. The Council's decision, backed by a vote in April, empowers staff and the Parks and Recreation Commission to organize events for the 2024 Juneteenth celebration.

Event planners invite locals and visitors alike to come learn about the significance of Juneteenth and share the celebrations for the 2024 community celebration. It is a community-driven event with planning and brainstorming sessions taking place all year ahead of the event, ensuring it truly is a community event worth remembering.

Despite a pause on the event last year due to city regulations against large events at small parks, the City Council's commitment signals a renewed effort to honor Juneteenth and foster community engagement in shaping the celebration's future.

As Juneteenth's significance continues to resonate across the nation, these diverse celebrations are tributes to freedom, resilience, and cultural heritage. Each event paints a unique picture of unity and commemoration, from the vibrant festivities at Kissimmee's Juneteenth Festival to the artistic expressions of Creative Suitland's Arts and Cultural Festival.

So grab your calendar and make plans to celebrate Black culture and the Black community with your family today by attending one of these events!