Juneteenth (June 19) marks the day in 1865 when a group of enslaved people in Galveston, Texas finally learned that they were free from slavery, two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Now a federal holiday, Juneteenth is believed to be the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the U.S.
Here in Miami, there are many events ranging from artistic to educational throughout the week. We’ve gathered some of the best Juneteenth celebrations that you can take part in this year:
The 6th Annual Juneteenth Experience at the Bandshell
Head to the Miami Beach Bandshell for an unforgettable night of culture, community and music as The Juneteenth Experience returns for its sixth year — to where it all began. Hued Songs’ flagship celebration is a concert-theater production exploring the theme “We, Too, Sing America,” blending gospel, blues, R&B and classical music to celebrate the Black roots of the American sound.
A Day of Freedom: Dance by the Ocean at Lummus Park
Presented by Miami Beach OnStage!, experience the beauty and power of the Peter London Global Dance Company at this free outdoor performance. Set against the beachfront backdrop of Lummus Park, this event honors the spirit and strength of the Black community through stunning movement and sound.
Sun, Sand & History: 3rd Annual Juneteenth Beach Bash
Partnering with the HistoryMiami Museum’s “In-Community” program, this family-friendly bash is bringing history right to Virginia Key Beach Park. Little ones and adults alike can explore interactive art activities and historic objects straight from the museum’s teaching collection, alongside live music, tasty food trucks, a bounce house, shoreline painting, beach cleanups, raffle prizes and much more.
Masisi Radio Live at The Bass
Seating is limited and first-come, first-served
Kick off the holiday early at The Bass Museum’s Third Thursdays. Miami’s own Masisi Radio is taking over with “Move Your Body: Memory,” a dynamic live broadcast and dancefloor celebration honoring Juneteenth through Afro-Caribbean sound. Rooted in the legacy of the Black, queer and trans communities who shaped global club culture, this event takes place inside a vibrant, floor-to-ceiling installation. What are you waiting for? Get on the dance floor!
“Free To Be: A Juneteenth Jubilee” at Miami Children’s Museum
Celebrate Black history, joy and futures at Miami Children’s Museum’s “Free To Be: A Juneteenth Jubilee.” Thanks to Baptist Health, the museum is offering complimentary admission from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. for a vibrant evening of family-friendly programming! Kids can help create a collaborative Freedom Quilt, listen to a special storytime with author Sandra Wicks and make Sankofa-inspired collages.
Don’t miss a powerful Afro-Caribbean dance performance by the Tradisyon-Lakou-Lakay Dance Ensemble, or the chance to shop the Black-Owned Marketplace featuring local creatives.
6th Annual Juneteenth: Unity x Black Excellence Festival
Bring the whole family out to the 6th Annual Juneteenth: Unity x Black Excellence Festival in West Palm Beach! This free community celebration is all about honoring Emancipation Day while uplifting and connecting the local community. Expect live entertainment, delicious food, local retail vendors and community resources. HBCU grads are also encouraged to represent their alma mater and wear their university gear.
