Ahead of Juneteenth on June 19, we’re rounding up some of the biggest events happening around the area for the annual holiday.
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, announcing that the Civil War had ended and enslaved people were free. Since then, the holiday has become a time to reflect on the history and struggles Black Americans have faced while also celebrating culture, community, and progress.
June 19 | 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Queer Expressions Juneteenth Jubilee at E2K Vintage Store. Dance, shop, and support the diverse art of local Black creatives. DJ set by Sól, musical performances by @Zanz1bean and @Tethedawn, plus food from Black female-owned business @thebrunchmunch727.
June 12 | 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. The City of St. Petersburg Parks & Recreation Department will host a Juneteenth Celebration featuring music and education at the Sunshine Senior Center. The afternoon celebration will honor the history and cultural significance of Juneteenth through engaging activities, live entertainment, and learning opportunities. The event is free, but registration is required.
June 19 | 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. Juneteenth Backyard Boogie, hosted by Saturday Shoppes, brings together good eats, good beats, and good people celebrating Juneteenth together at Deuces Park, located at 2184 9th Avenue S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712.
June 19 | 8 p.m. – 11 p.m. FOR THE CULTURE: Juneteenth Game Night, a night of fire music, movie moments, culture debates, dance battles, nostalgia, and competition. “Finish the Lyrics,” “Black Card Revoked,” and movie trivia are just a few of the games happening throughout the night.
June 20 | 8 p.m. SPEAK EASY: Words That Breathe, Juneteenth Edition, another culture-centered creative event featuring poetry performances and powerful headliners.
Don’t forget, you can still celebrate Juneteenth without attending an event. Support Black-owned businesses and restaurants throughout the day by checking out these local Black-owned business guides:
