Juneteenth National Independence Day was established as a federal holiday in 2021. It commemorates the day when 250,000 slaves in the state of Texas, which became the last bastion for slavery during the final days of the Civil War, were declared free by the U.S. Army. In Orlando, celebrations start early, reflecting our inclusive spirit and diverse community.
Many Floridians begin observing Juneteenth as early as May 20, the day the Emancipation Proclamation was read in Tallahassee. Florida State Senator Geraldine F. Thompson notes that it’s common to have freedom activities from May 20 to June 19. Here’s a roundup of ways you can celebrate Juneteenth in Orlando, from cultural events and concerts to honoring notable African Americans. Join us in these celebrations of freedom and resilience!
Gordon Parks: The Power of Photography (May 7 – Aug. 18, 2024)
Firstly, begin your Juneteenth journey at the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens in Winter Park. The museum is showcasing a 1943 photo essay by Gordon Parks, a renowned photographer who captured emotional images of poverty and racism throughout the nation. This collection centers around his time spent in nearby Daytona Beach and features educator Mary McLeod Bethune, Bethune-Cookman University, and images of daily life in a then-segregated community.
Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens
1887 Juneteenth Weekend (June 15 – 19, 2024)
Just north of Orlando, the historic Town of Eatonville invites you to enjoy the 1887 Juneteenth Weekend. It’s one of the first incorporated Black towns in the nation! Highlights include a Juneteenth Festival with live music, delicious food, and family-friendly activities on June 15 and a Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration and proclamation observance at Eatonville’s town hall on June 19. The festivities will also feature community events for Eatonville youth, fathers, and seniors, plus a virtual event exploring Juneteenth connections to “The Town That Freedom Built.”
Eatonville Town Hall
Facets of Freedom: A Celebration of Juneteenth (June 19, 2024)
On June 19, celebrate African American artistry with musical performances, dance, visual arts, and spoken word at Facets of Freedom. Hosted by Black Theatre Girl Magic in Orlando’s Ivanhoe Village District, the celebration includes food and drink from Black-owned businesses, making for an enriching cultural experience.
Better Together Juneteenth Mixer (June 19, 2024)
Also on June 19, join Juneteenth 407’s Better Together Juneteenth Mixer, presented by 26Health, at Eola View. This event promises a night of celebration and unity with good music, food, and company. Your ticket includes a drink ticket, appetizers, and a swag bag. Enjoy a DJ, 360 photobooth, games, activities, and networking opportunities, along with free STD/STI testing by 26Health.
Eola View
Candlelight Jazz: Tribute to Aretha Franklin (June 20, 2024)
Enjoy a tribute to legendary soul artist Aretha Franklin under the glow of candlelight at The Abbey. The Candlelight Jazz concert will feature talented artists performing some of Franklin’s greatest hits, like “Respect,” “Say a Little Prayer,” and “Chain of Fools” in Downtown Orlando.
Josephine: A Burlesque Cabaret Dream Play (June 22, 2024)
The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts will host Josephine: A Burlesque Cabaret Dream Play. It’s an award-winning one-woman show featuring Orlando native Tymisha Harris as Josephine Baker. Experience Baker’s life as a singer, movie star, World War II spy, civil rights activist, and cultural icon in this dazzling performance that combines cabaret, theater, and dance.
Dr. Phillips Center
Central Florida Juneteenth Celebration and Fireworks Show (June 22 – 23, 2024)
Celebrate freedom, unity, and African American culture during the two-day Central Florida Juneteenth Celebration in Maitland. The free festivities will feature local artists, food for purchase, live performances by April Brown & the After5 band, and a fireworks spectacular to end the weekend with a bang. Kids eat free in the 3,500 square feet kids zone, making it a perfect family outing.
The Freedom Project: Influential African American Floridians (July 29, 2024)
Lastly, wrap up your Juneteenth celebrations with The Freedom Project at The Abbey in Downtown Orlando. Professional performers from the Florida Theatrical Association will present classic works from historic African American Floridian artists like Zora Neale Hurston and James Weldon Johnson. This free, one-of-a-kind show will meld past and present, addressing issues of freedom and oppression that continue to this day.
The Abbey Orlando
As shown above, there are many ways to celebrate Juneteenth in Orlando! We hope you’ll join us in showing your support.