Ways to celebrate Juneteenth in San Diego County

SAN DIEGO — Juneteenth, a holiday that was mostly celebrated by Black families in the South, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States on June 19, 1865, which came two years after the  Emancipation Proclamation when the last remaining slaves in Galveston, Texas, were freed.

Also referred to as Freedom Day, second Independence Day and Emancipation Day, Juneteenth lands on a Thursday this year. While most city and county offices in San Diego will be closed, there are various ways people can commemorate this historical day.

Kinfolk Fest 2025: On June 14, from 12:30-9 p.m. at the Waterfront Park, SD Melanin will host Kinfolk Fest, where visitors can enjoy live music ranging from R&B to Hip Hop, food and craft beverages. The event will also feature Black-owned businesses and vendors. Click here to purchase tickets.

5th Annual Juneteenth at the Beach x Paddle for Peace: Paddle For Peace, a nonprofit organization, is hosting its 5th annual Juneteenth Summer Kick-Off BBQ event at La Jolla Shores Beach from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 21. Attendees can enjoy beach games, BBQ, live music and a group run. This is a free community event and a food ticket is required for the BBQ. Click here for more information. 

Cooper Family Foundation Juneteenth Celebration: The Cooper Family Foundation is hosting its annual Juneteenth event on June 21 at Memorial Park. The event, which runs from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., is free for all to attend. Attendees can expect live music, food vendors and educational programs. 

San Diego Public Library: The San Diego Public Library is offering various Juneteenth programs at several library branches. Visitors can attend a jazz performance at Oak Park Library on June 14 or head to Carmel Mountain Ranch Library on June 18 for a Juneteenth Storytime. Click here for a full list of events offered by the SDPL. 

North Park Community Block Party: Louisiana Purchase, alongside High Definition Entertainment, Black San Diego and Harvey Family Foundation, is hosting its first Juneteenth Block Party at the corner of Louisiana Street and Wightman Street in North Park, on June 19 from 12-6 p.m. The event will feature local Black-owned businesses, and will also have a slam poetry spoken word showcase, live music and others. The event is free for all to attend, but an RSVP is recommended. Click here for more information. 

Juneteenth Multicultural Celebration: The North San Diego County NAACP is hosting its annual Juneteenth celebration in Downtown Oceanside on June 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Attendees can expect food, a vendor marketplace, informational and health awareness booths and various kid-friendly activities. This event is free for all ages.