Wednesday, June 19 is Juneteenth. Also known as Jubilee Day, Freedom Day, or Emancipation Day, this annual holiday observes the enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation — two and a half years after it was passed. Join in on these festivities around Lakeland.
Juneteenth Freedom Celebration | Saturday, June 15
From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., head to Jackson Park (1130 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave.) for a celebration rich with live music, community dance showcases, and arts + culture exhibitions.
Juneteenth Celebration 2024 | Saturday, June 15
Winter Haven’s 4th annual Juneteenth celebration will take place 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Lake Maude Recreation Park (1751 7th St. NE., Winter Haven) and will feature live local entertainment, vendors, and a zone just for kids.
Tapas + Paint Night | Wednesday, June 19
Join Our Noire Kitchen at AR Workshop Winter Haven (5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Ste. 210, Winter Haven) for a guided painting class complete with Caribbean-inspired small plates from 6 to 8 p.m.
Juneteenth Salsa y Bachata at the Park | Wednesday, June 19
This dance class, which typically takes place at the Coleman-Bush Building, will take place in Munn Park. Arrive at 7:30 p.m. to learn bachata moves, then join the celebratory social from 8:30 to 10 p.m. It’s free to join.
Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom | Saturday, June 22
Stop by Donald Brunson Community Center (124 Brunson Trl., Polk City) from 1 to 5 p.m. for a festive + educational celebration hosted by New Outlook Events.
Juneteenth Freedom Festival | Saturday, June 29
Explore cultural exhibits that showcase the rich history and heritage of the African American community in this free, family-friendly festival at Simpson Park Community Center (1725 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave.) from 1 to 6 p.m.
Did we miss a Juneteenth happening? Add it to our community calendar.