This coming Monday is Juneteenth (June 19), which 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 and activities from artistic to educational happening throughout the week. We’ve gathered 6 Juneteenth celebrations that you can take part in this year:
1. The Juneteenth Experience at the Miami Beach Bandshell
Hued Songs is preparing for its annual Juneteenth Experience, a free multidisciplinary celebration honoring America’s second Independence Day. It will welcome everyone to the Miami Beach Bandshell to celebrate with music, spoken word, film and more. It’ll be split into two parts: beginning at 6:30 p.m. with the screening of short films by local artists celebrating Black joy and liberation. At 8 p.m., the live performances will begin. The entertainment features a diverse cast of local artists including J’Von Brown, Jasmine Williams, Arsimmer McCoy and Darius Manuel with members from Zest Dance Collective under the direction of Artistic Director and Choreographer Gentry George, among others.
Where: Miami Beach Bandshell, 7275 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33141
When: Monday, June 19, doors open at 4 p.m.
2. Juneteenth Jubilee at Ocean Social
Chef Tristen Epps of Ocean Social will be teaming up with two of Miami’s pre-eminent chefs — Akino West of Rosie’s and Cleophus Hethington of Zak the Baker — for a special evening inspired by the holiday. Together, they will prepare a 10-course menu featuring two dishes in each course that tell the story of Juneteenth via a historic culinary experience. The menu will be paired with curated with Uncle Nearest Whiskey cocktails, an award-winning, 200-year-old Tennessee distillery founded by the world’s first known African American distiller.
Where: Eden Roc Miami Beach, 4525 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
When: Monday, June 19, at 6 p.m.
3. Juneteenth Park-In & Party at the Hard Rock Stadium
The third annual Juneteenth Park-In and Party Celebration, presented by the City of Miami Gardens, is taking over the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Saturday, June 17. This year’s fest begins at 5 p.m. and will feature hometown comedian Marvin Dixon and music by DJ Bo Weezy.
Where: Hard Rock Stadium, 347 Don Shula Dr Suite 102, Miami Gardens, FL 33056
When: Saturday, June 17, doors open at gates open at 3:30 p.m.
4. Juneteenth Juke Joint at the Arsht Center
The Adrienne Arsht Center’s Heritage Committee is presenting its second annual Juneteenth Juke Joint, which pays homage to the rich history of Black music, culture and food in the American South, this Wednesday. Arrive early to enjoy a special happy hour with soul food and libations and groove to pan-African beats mixed by DJ Shacia Päyne Marley. World-renowned saxophonist, producer and composer Melton Mustafa Jr. will also play tunes with Mustafa on Sax.
Where: Ziff Ballet Opera House, 1300 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
When: Wednesday, June 14, at 7 p.m.
5. FIU Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration
Running through June 19th, Florida International University’s week-long Juneteenth celebrations are open to everyone and include performances from local artists, local artisan vendors, raffles, food trucks, and more! Registration is required and you can learn more about the university’s full lineup here.
Where: Dotson Family Pavilion at FIU Modesto A. Maidique Campus, 11200 SW 8th Street Miami, FL 33199
6. Juneteenth Celebration at Miami Children’s Museum
Join the Miami Children’s Museum for a day full of family-friendly events with special story times and a fun and festive dance party. Then create your own Juneteenth Flag, and design colorful green, yellow and red wearables for their end of session Parade!
Where: Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, FL 33132
When: Monday, June 19, at 10 a.m.