TAMPA, Fla. — Juneteenth is celebrated annually on June 19 and became a federal holiday when former President Joe Biden signed the legislation on June 17, 2021.
This day commemorates the ending of slavery on June 19, 1865, marking the arrival of Union soldiers in Galveston, Texas, with the news that the war had ended and that enslaved people were now free, two-and-a-half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863.
Now, Juneteenth serves as a time to reflect on and celebrate the achievements of the African American community. Here’s a look at the festivities happening around Tampa Bay.
Citrus County
Hernando County
Hillsborough County
- City of Tampa Annual Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony and Festival
Friday, June 13, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | City Center at Hanna Avenue
Join Mayor Jane Castor and community members to raise the Juneteenth flag, along with enjoy free food and vendors. - Juneteenth Cultural Celebration
Saturday, June 14, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Tampa Museum of Art
Enjoy a community celebration featuring art-making activities, live music, and local vendors. - Arts Legacy Remix
Monday, June 16, 7:30 p.m. | Straz Center – Jaeb Theater
An event showcasing local cultures through music, poetry, and dance as part of the fifth annual Juneteenth commemoration. - Tampa Police Juneteenth Summer Block Party
Thursday, June 19, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Perry Harvey Sr. Park
Featuring local vendors, nonprofits, and raffle opportunities. - Juneteenth Film Celebration
Thursday, June 19, 6 p.m. | Tampa Theatre
Showcasing local films from Tampa Bay area filmmakers. Free, but requires prior registration online. - Tampa Bay Juneteenth Festival
June 16 – 21, 2:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Raymond James Stadium
A multi-day event featuring a youth summit, cultural events, and celebrations with DJs and vendors. It is free but requires tickets.
Manatee County
Pasco County
Pinellas County
- City of Dunedin Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 14, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | John R. Lawrence Pioneer Park
Featuring live music, performances, food, and craft vendors. - Juneteenth Celebration
Thursday, June 19, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | The Woodson African American Museum of Florida
Explore art opportunities and a sculpture exhibit while enjoying the museum offerings. - City of Gulfport Juneteenth Celebration
Thursday, June 19, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Gulfport Beach — Pavilion 6
Hosted by the Kiwanis Club, celebrating community significance. - Juneteenth Celebration: Painting With a Purpose
Thursday, June 19, 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. | Artz 4 Life Academy
Includes art supplies, appetizers, and a custom swag bag for early registrants. - Juneteenth: A Freedom Celebration
Saturday, June 21, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Dorsett Park
Dine, play games, and dance at this community-centric event.
Polk County
- Juneteenth Festival
Saturday, June 14, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Rueben Williams Sports Complex
Celebrate freedom with vendors, artists, and food trucks. - Juneteenth Heritage Day
Saturday, June 14, 11:30 a.m. | Jamestown Community Park
Enjoy free food, games, and live music. - Juneteenth Celebration
Sunday, June 15, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Jackson Park
Experience live music, cultural exhibitions, and community dance showcases. - Juneteenth Annual Gala
Friday, June 20, 6 – 10 p.m. | Lake Eva Event Center
An evening of celebration and reflection with live music and speakers for $55.20 per person. - Freedom Festival
Saturday, June 28, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. | Simpson Park Community Center
Enjoy live music, food vendors, and exhibits.
Key Information
- Federal Holiday: Juneteenth became a federal holiday on June 17, 2021.
- Date of Celebration: June 19, 1865, marks the end of slavery.
- Festivities in Tampa Bay: Events span from June 13 to June 28 with various celebrations highlighting culture, community, and heritage.
Article original publish date: 2025-06-12 11:16:00
Article source: www.baynews9.com
Read the full story at the original source: www.baynews9.com
