This June, communities across Arizona are coming together to honor Juneteenth—the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. More than just a date, Juneteenth is a living legacy of resilience, liberation, and Black excellence. From soulful brunches and vibrant festivals to educational programs and powerful performances, these statewide events offer space for reflection, celebration, and unity.
June 10: Juneteenth Evening Festival at the Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden kicks off Juneteenth with an immersive evening celebration in one of Phoenix’s most beautiful natural settings, from 6 to 9 p.m. Guests can explore scenic trails illuminated by interactive stations as part of the Roots of Innovation Trail, collect stamps in a cultural passport experience, and enjoy a book giveaway hosted by the Friends of the Library. The evening unfolds with family-friendly activities, community vendors, and a live concert by Prime Society at 7:30 p.m. Food vendors include soul food favorite Melnlibby’s Lasgida Café’s Nigerian-American fare and Maui Wowi smoothies. The event embraces this year’s theme, Reclaiming the Past, Remembering Black Voices, and Reshaping the Future, inviting guests to engage, reflect, and celebrate in the community.
Cost: Free with Community Day reservation.
For more information: dbg.org/events/juneteenth-2025/.
June 14: 12th Annual Juneteenth Celebration at Tempe History Museum
Tempe
The African-American Advisory Committee presents the 12th Annual Juneteenth Celebration at Tempe History Museum, a cornerstone event focused on education, heritage, and family fun. This indoor-outdoor event will feature live music, city proclamations, community awards, and stage performances by Prime Society and the Tempe Fire Department Honor Guard. Attendees can visit vendor tables, resource booths, and cultural exhibits, while younger guests enjoy crafts, a video game trailer, and interactive story time with local heroes. Enjoy bites from food trucks like Sweet Magnolia Smokehouse, Lane’s Grill on Wheels, and Snowie Town. The Juneteenth celebration takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend.
For more information: www.tempe.gov.
June 14: Downtown Tempe Juneteenth Block Party
Tempe
Returning for its second year, this high-energy block party at Centerpoint Plaza transforms Downtown Tempe into a dynamic celebration of culture, music, and Black-owned culinary excellence from 7 to 11 p.m. Hosted by soul singer and emcee Teri Tobin, the night features DJ sets by DJ Panic and DJ AKSHEN, powerful spoken word by Urban Poet, and 1v1 dance battles brought to life by the Furious Styles Crew. Enjoy line dancing with SouthWest Steppaz and indulge in craveable dishes by Kingpin BBQ, Randizzle’s Burgers, Spice Queens, Flav-Oh’s Ice Cream Truck, and Big Mama’s Desserts. Locally crafted beer and Crown Royal canned cocktails will be flowing. The night also marks the Barber Battle Finals, a showdown between four top Arizona barbers.
Cost: Free to attend.
For more information: www.downtowntempe.com.
June 14: Tucson Juneteenth Festival 2025
Tucson
Tucson’s 55th-annual Juneteenth Festival is a powerful celebration designed to uplift, educate, and connect. With a mission rooted in preserving the legacy of Juneteenth for future generations, this event includes live music, cultural exhibits, food trucks, retail vendors, a car show, and a vibrant kids zone. It’s an immersive experience designed to honor history while celebrating the richness of Black culture in all its forms. Live music performances include choirs and performances from local schools. The exciting celebration takes place at Kino Sports Complex from 5 to 10 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend.
For more information: tucsonjune19.org.
June 15: 5th Annual RYBE Juneteenth Freedom Celebration
Phoenix
The RYBE Juneteenth Freedom Celebration returns with an uplifting day of performances (taking place from 2 to 8 p.m.), community engagement, and interactive fun. Guests can explore a Black art exhibition, take part in a collaborative community art wall, and roller skate through an indoor rink hosted by Zoni Girls. Kids can enjoy activities in the BASE Arizona Kids Zone, while adults can catch live drum and dance shows, comedy sets, and a Grammy-nominated saxophonist performance. The event also features Juneteenth education stations focused on the holiday’s origins and ongoing significance.
Cost: Free to attend.
For more information: www.eventbrite.com.
June 19: SugarJam The Southern Kitchen’s Juneteenth Brunch Celebration
Scottsdale
Led by founder and chef Dana Dumas, SugarJam The Southern Kitchen offers a soulful and flavor-packed way to celebrate Juneteenth through food. This Black- and woman-owned restaurant in North Scottsdale is known for its decadent brunch menu, craft cocktails, and in-house bakery. On June 19, guests can enjoy exclusive Juneteenth specials like fried lobster over creamy Creole shrimp and crab grits, smoked gouda lobster mac and cheese, braised oxtails with grits, and whole fried snapper over dirty rice. Specialty June cocktails include the Junebug Mimosa Flight and a Blackberry Bramble featuring Uncle Nearest 1884.
Reservations: www.sjsouthernkitchen.com.
June 19: Chandler’s Juneteenth COCKTAILS & Engage With New People!
Chandler
Designed to foster connection across generations, this 21-plus event invites guests ages “21 to 91” to mingle over drinks in a relaxed social setting. Hosted by Ollie & Joey, COCKTAILS & Engage With New People! creates a space for authentic conversation and meaningful new connections as attendees gather and commemorate the holiday. The event location is shared via ticket confirmation to ensure an intimate environment and takes place from 6:30 to 9 p.m. in Chandler.
Cost: Free to attend; cost for beverages.
Tickets: www.eventbrite.com.
June 21: Maricopa’s Annual Juneteenth Festival
Maricopa
Celebrate community, heritage, and freedom at Central Arizona College in Maricopa with an afternoon of music, food, and family-focused fun. This inclusive event, running from 2 to 6 p.m., features live performances, raffle prizes, kids activities, and cultural engagement opportunities. Local vendors will be on-site with various food options and community resources. It’s a joyful and spirited gathering dedicated to honoring the legacy of Juneteenth while uniting neighbors across backgrounds.
Cost: Free to attend.
Tickets: www.eventbrite.com.
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