image

TAMPA, Fla. — Juneteenth, celebrated annually on June 19, became a federal holiday after former President Joe Biden signed the legislation on June 17, 2021.

The day commemorates the ending of slavery on June 19, 1865, where Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free — two-and-a-half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation — which had become official January 1, 1863.

Today, Juneteenth is celebrated to reflect and recognize achievements in the African American community. Here’s a look at the festivities that will be taking place around Tampa Bay.

Citrus County

Hernando County

Hillsborough County

  • City of Tampa Annual Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony and Festival
    Friday, June 13, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | City Center at Hanna Avenue
    Join Mayor Jane Castor and community members as they gather to raise the Juneteenth flag. There will be free food and various vendors.
  • Juneteenth Cultural Celebration
    Saturday, June 14, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Tampa Museum of Art
    Prepare for a community celebration featuring art-making activities, live music and performances, photobooth experience, gallery discussions, local vendors, and more.
  • Arts Legacy Remix
    Monday, June 16, 7:30 p.m. | Straz Center – Jaeb Theater
    Arts Legacy Remix celebrates the different cultures and talented local artists who reside in the Tampa Bay area. The group is putting on its fifth annual Juneteenth commemoration, featuring spoken remembrances, writings of historical importance and an original performance of music, poetry and dance.
  • Tampa Police Juneteenth Summer Block Party
    Thursday, June 19, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Perry Harvey Sr. Park
    This event will feature local vendors, nonprofits, special recognitions and raffles. 
  • Juneteenth Film Celebration
    Thursday, June 19, 6 p.m. | Tampa Theatre
    The film celebration will exhibit local Tampa Bay area films, filmmakers and actors. There will be several previews, short films and features showcased at the event. The event is free, but requires pre-registration online. 
  • Tampa Bay Juneteenth Festival
    June 16 – 21, 2:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Raymond James Stadium
    This is a multi-day festival featuring a youth summit, a “Cultural Couture Ball,” a public discussion about issues within the community, a family fun day at Topgolf and celebration featuring DJs, vendors and dance performances. The events are free, but it is a ticketed event.

Manatee County

Pasco County

Pinellas County

Polk County