Staff Writer
As communities across the nation prepare to honor Juneteenth this weekend, Central Florida offers a range of meaningful events that reflect both celebration and remembrance. Recognized annually on June 19, Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston Bay, Texas, learned of their freedom—more than two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Officially designated as a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth has become a powerful time for cultural celebration, historical reflection, and community unity.
From music festivals and educational exhibits to family-friendly activities and health-focused events, here’s how residents and visitors can take part in Juneteenth events across Central Florida this weekend.
Juneteenth Community Events in Central Florida
Love & Liberation: A Pride Celebration
June 21, 2–6 p.m.
Central Florida Fairgrounds, 4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando
Hosted by Come Out With Pride Orlando, this free event highlights the intersection of Black and LGBTQIA+ communities. Expect performances from Black LGBTQIA+ artists, speakers, storytellers, food trucks, and vendors representing Black-owned and queer-owned businesses.
Mount Dora Juneteenth Summer Celebration
June 21, 3–8 p.m.
Cauley Lott Park, 1717 N. Highland St., Mount Dora
Celebrate Juneteenth with live music from Carolyn Harding and DJ Samp, a streetball showcase by Court Kingz, and activities for all ages. Sponsored by local organizations including the City of Mount Dora and the Mount Dora Police Association.
Winter Garden Juneteenth Community Celebration
June 21, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Charlie Mae Wilder Park, 1203 E. Plant St., Winter Garden
Featuring live music by Bobby Blackmon & The B3 Band, this community gathering includes games, vendors, and resource booths. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Free shuttle available from 848 E. Plant St., 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Juneteenth in Historic and Cultural Spaces
Hannibal Square Heritage Center
642 W. New England Ave., Winter Park
This cultural center explores the African American history of Winter Park’s west side through photographs, oral histories, and art exhibits. Visitors can explore permanent and rotating collections, as well as public art and educational programming.
Hours: Tue–Thu, noon–4 p.m.; Fri, 2:30–5:30 p.m.; Sat, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture
511 W. South St., Orlando
Once a vital lodging stop for Black entertainers during segregation, the Wells’Built Museum now preserves African American history through civil rights-era memorabilia, African art, and cultural exhibits.
Hours: Mon–Fri, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Second weekend of each month.
Additional Juneteenth Celebrations and Activities
Harry T. Moore Cultural Center Juneteenth Festival
June 21, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Mims, FL
This free event includes live entertainment, games for all ages, and food vendors. Community members are invited to celebrate the legacy of civil rights leader Harry T. Moore in an inclusive environment. For vendor opportunities, call (321) 264-6595.
Youth Jam Festival in Eatonville
June 20, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Hungerford Field, Eatonville
This youth-focused event offers music, games, and vendors to celebrate Juneteenth in a fun, interactive environment for kids and families.
Main Juneteenth Festival in Eatonville
June 21, Noon–6 p.m.
Hungerford Field, Eatonville
Join the community for entertainment, food, vendors, and engaging history-based activities such as “history hunts” that honor the rich heritage of Eatonville.
Juneteenth Gospel Celebration
June 22, 6 p.m.
Marina Banquet Hall, 1104 Lakeshore Blvd, Saint Cloud
Tickets: $30
Enjoy performances from local gospel artists and church choirs in this spirited evening event.
Juneteenth in Oviedo
June 21, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
1600 Lockwood Blvd., Oviedo
Community Health staff and local partners will mark the occasion through music, food, art, and health education.
Juneteenth Freedom Day 5K Run/Walk
June 21, 8 a.m.
Riverfront Esplanade, 249 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach
Registration: $35
Participate in this commemorative 5K while supporting health, wellness, and remembrance.
Miss Juneteenth Volusia County Pageant
June 21, 3 p.m.
Babe James Community Center, 201 N. Myrtle Ave., New Smyrna Beach
Celebrate Black excellence and leadership with this annual pageant highlighting the achievements of young Black women in the community.
Reflect, Learn, Celebrate
Juneteenth in Central Florida offers an opportunity to both honor the past and embrace the future through cultural expression, history, education, and unity. Whether you’re attending a concert, visiting a museum, joining a 5K, or supporting local vendors, there are countless ways to engage with the spirit of Juneteenth across the region.
Comments