PHOENIX (AZFamily)— Juneteenth, short for “June Ninteenth,” marks the end of slavery in the United States. It is the longest-running African American holiday and officially became a federal holiday in 2021.
Juneteenth commemorates African-American freedom and achievement, and there are several Valley events happening this week to celebrate this historic holiday.
Phoenix
Juneteenth at the Phoenix Art Museum
Location: 1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
When: Thursday, June 19
The Phoenix Art Museum will host a Juneteenth Community Celebration with a discounted admission fee of $10. Guests can enjoy food and drink vendors, guided tours, and access to the following:
- 5 p.m.: The Lit Twis’t — Phoenix’s First Black Woman-Owned Mobile Bookstore
- 5 p.m.: Organizations like Arizona Birthworkers of Color, A Taste of Melanin + Made In Her Image
- 6 p.m.: Open Mic hosted by Rashaad Thomas
- 7 p.m.: Live saxophone performance by The Sunflower King
The Family Reunion- A Juneteenth Celebration
Location: 1401 E Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
When: Thursday, June 19 at 12 p.m.
Attend a vibrant Juneteenth celebration of culture, freedom and community! Enjoy live music from black artists, a DJ, refreshing cocktails, a chicken wing showdown and more! Attendees can also shop at and indulge in products from local small businesses.
East Valley
Juneteenth at Arizona Heritage Center
Location: 1300 N College Ave, Tempe, AZ 85288
When: Saturday, June 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Attend a powerful celebration featuring discussion, storytelling, performances and two afternoon genealogy workshops. Registration is available here.
A Time for Healing, A Time for Change, A Time For Theater Juneteenth Shows
Location: ASU Kerr in Scottsdale, 6110 N Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, AZ, 85253
When: Friday, June 20 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, June 21 at 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy an evening of live theater featuring plays of the “Lost Boys Found” by Julie Amparano Garcia and “The Moment” by James E. Garcia.
West Alley BBQ Juneteenth Celebration
Location: 111 W Boston St, Chandler, AZ 85225
When: Thursday, June 19, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
West Alley BBQ is a black-owned restaurant celebrating seven years in Chandler! They will host a Juneteenth celebration with live music, giveaways, tastings and food and drink specials.
West Valley
Juneteenth Family Day at Goodyer Recreation Campus
Location: 420 Estrella Pkwy, Goodyear, AZ 85338
When: Thursday, June 19
The event will feature educational speeches, live performances, indoor and outdoor activities, and workshops to commemorate Juneteenth. There will also be local businesses and food vendors.
Juneteenth Festival
Location: 4241 W Bell Rd, Glendale, AZ 85308
When: Thursday, June 19 at 4 p.m.
The city of Glendale will hold a festival featuring local black business owners and vendors, raffles, games and music. At night, the event will be adults-only and feature music, food and drinks.
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