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 and activities from artistic to educational happening throughout the week. We’ve gatheredthe best Juneteenth celebrations that you can take part in this year:
1. Hued Songs’ Juneteenth Experience
Hued Songs is preparing for its 4th annual Juneteenth Experience, a celebration honoring America’s second Independence Day. It will welcome everyone to two iconic venues over the course of three days to celebrate with music, spoken word and film. Pre-show activities will include a pop-up market spotlighting the work of local Black artisans and vendors, followed by the screening of short films by talented local filmmakers delving into the themes of Black Belonging. The main event will be a riveting performance melding spoken word, dance, music and multimedia elements.
Where & When: June 14 at the Parker Playhouse (707 NE 8th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304), June 18 and 19 at the Colony Theatre (1040 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139)
2. Juneteenth Juke Joint at the Arsht Center
The Adrienne Arsht Center is presenting its third annual Juneteenth Juke Joint, which pays homage to the rich history of Black music, culture and food in the American South. The event is open to guests aged 18 and older and will feature Stout and her band, whose sound is deeply rooted in gospel and soul, blended with elements of jazz, rock, hip-hop, pop and more. Arrive early to enjoy a special happy hour with soul food and libations, and view an art exhibit curated by The Black Archives in the lobby.
Where: Ziff Ballet Opera House, 1300 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
When: Thursday, June 13, at 7:30 p.m.
3. Juneteenth Park-In & Party at the Hard Rock Stadium
The fourth 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 15. This year’s fest will feature hometown comedian Marvin Dixon, music by DJ Bo Weezy, a headlining performance by Stephanie Mills and much more.
Where: Hard Rock Stadium, 347 Don Shula Dr, Miami Gardens, FL 33056
When: Saturday, June 15, at 4 p.m.
4. Menu specials at Red Rooster Overtown
Marcus Samuelsson, Derek Fleming and Michael Simkins’s acclaimed Overtown restaurant will be celebrating the holiday with menu additions exclusive to June 19th. Alongside their traditional menu, they’ll be offering a delicious appetizer of Lamb Stuffed Piquillo Peppers, Black Garlic Demi, Rosemary Oil and entree Coffee Rusted Bone Ribeye with Crawfish Butter. They’ll also be serving up a cocktail known as the Justice Jubilee, with d’usse, licor 43, simple syrup and espresso.
Where: 920 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33136
When: Wednesday, June 19, from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
5. Juneteenth Jazz at The Betsy
The Betsy Hotel is pulling out all the stops to commemorate Juneteenth with an evening of free live jazz at its Piano Bar. Set to take the stage are soulful jazz duo The Harden Project – John Harden on piano and Ja’Nia Harden on vocals. Known for their dynamic chemistry and rich musical influences, guests can enjoy the soulful sounds while sipping on cocktails from the bar or a full culinary experience with dinner at New American restaurant, LT Steak & Seafood.
Where: 1440 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
When: Wednesday, June 19, from 6 to 11 p.m.
6. 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, activities, raffles, food trucks and more! Registration is required and you can learn more about the university’s full lineup here.
Where: FIU Dotson Family Pavilion, 11200 SW 8th Street Miami, FL 33199
7. Silhouettes: Image and Word in the Harlem Renaissance
This exhibit at The Wolfsonian–Florida International University, on view through June 23, spotlights the figures, authors and visual artists of the Harlem Renaissance. Curated by Christopher Norwood, founder of Hampton Art Lovers, in consultation with Shawn Christian, an FIU professor and Wolfsonian staff, “Silhouettes” displays illustrations from 39 books, as well as more than 60 paintings, prints, photographs and sculptures that offer a glimpse into the African American experience in the first half of the 20th century.
Where: 1001 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
When: Now through June 23
8. Juneteenth Celebration at Miami Children’s Museum
Join 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: Wednesday, June 19