Looking for ways to celebrate Juneteenth this coming Saturday? We are delighted to share a list of San Diego community events in honor of this holiday, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.

On June 19th, 1865, a Union general arrived in Galveston, Texas, to inform enslaved African-Americans of their freedom (based on the Emancipation Proclamation, issued over two and a half years earlier) and that the Civil War had ended. The holiday received its name by combining June and 19. Also referred to as “Juneteenth Independence Day”, “Freedom Day” or “Emancipation Day”, the holiday has been celebrated annually by African Americans since the late 1800s.

Juneteenth at Balboa Park

Host: Artists 4 Black Lives SD

When: 1:00 pm PDT, June 19

Where: Pepper Grove Park, Balboa Park

“This year we’re bringing more artists, more vendors, and more members of our community together to not only celebrate Juneteenth, but to protest systemic racism and police brutality.”

Juneteenth Fest

Host: Community Actor’s Theatre

When: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm PDT, June 19

Where: 2957 54th St. San Diego, 92105

“Various Vendors of, Jewelry, Clothing, Candles, Soaps, Creams, Books, Trinkets, Tupperware, Self-Protection Gears, Paintings, Ceramics, FARGO’S Barbecue Food Truck, Essential Oils, Coffees, Teas, and much more… FREE Entertainment by “Pete Johnson’s Blues Band”, Comedy, Poetry, The History of “JUNETEENTH”, Heartsoldiers Ministry and SK”, Michael Sim’s Blues Band, Paul Taylor, Sr., Marlon Daito and much more”

Juneteenth Wellness Festival

Host: The Yoga Bus

When: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm PDT, June 19

Where: InterContinental San Diego; 901 Bayfront Court, San Diego, 92101

“…plant-based food, art, music and a variety of live fitness classes…This is the perfect day to dedicate yourself to uplifting the Black Community, exploring creativity, educating on wellness, fostering togetherness and, of course, CELEBRATING life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”

Giving B.L.A.C.K. Outdoor Movie Night Fundraiser

Host: Giving B.L.A.C.K.

When: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm PDT, June 25

Where: 1835 Imperial Avenue, San Diego 92102

“Come enjoy the classic movie “Boomerang”, great food from black-owned vendors, popcorn, candy, wine and beer, and DJ… Giving B.L.A.C.K. is a nonprofit organization created to inspire and empower young Black professionals to reinvest in our San Diego Community.”

Juneteenth Celebration in Memory of Sidney Cooper Sr.

Host: The Cooper Family Foundation

When: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm PDT, June 19

Where: Memorial Park; 2975 Ocean View Blvd. San Diego 92113

“Free event featuring educational programs, live music, family fun, and vendors.”

Virtual Juneteenth 5k

Host: Fit Black and Educated Inc.

When: June 19 – August 17

Where: Virtual

Second annual virtual Juneteenth 5K with options to walk, run, or bike.