Juneteenth, held every June 19th, commemorates the day the last enslaved people in the United States learned they were free—a significant step in our nation’s journey toward equality and justice. Over time, several traditions have developed to honor this special day, including community gatherings, meals, music, and moments of remembrance.
Juneteenth celebrations in Anaheim and across Orange County reflect how the holiday continues to grow. In honor of Juneteenth, we’re breaking down all the festivals and events happening across the area so you can keep the celebration of freedom, culture, and community going all month long. Here’s a look at how local communities are marking the occasion in 2025.
Juneteenth 101: A Brief History Lesson
Juneteenth (short for June 19) is also known as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day, and marks the moment in 1865 when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that over 250,000 enslaved folks were finally free. This came nearly two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
The first Juneteenth celebrations began in Texas in 1866, often centered around churches and community gatherings. In 2021, it became a federal holiday, formally recognizing it as the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the end of slavery in the U.S.
You can learn more about the history of emancipation and Juneteenth via the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Top Local Juneteenth Festivals and Events
Juneteenth Festival
Centennial Park – Santa Ana
On June 14th, the Juneteenth Festival will return to Santa Ana’s Centennial Park. Hosted by Tyrone DuBose in partnership with KJLH Radio, this community event will celebrate freedom, resilience, and progress with live music, food, vendors, and family activities under the theme “Embrace the Legacy and Power of the Future.”
Inaugural Juneteenth Sneaker Ball
Anaheim, CA – Casa Bella Event Center
Another event to look forward to is the Inaugural Juneteenth Sneaker Ball, which will be held on June 20th, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. The sneaker ball idea is a fresh way to celebrate Juneteenth, honoring Black culture and fashion through the suggested attire.
Juneteenth Freedom Day Market
Anaheim - Center Street Promenade
Downtown Anaheim invites the community to come together in celebration of culture, history, and freedom at the Juneteenth Freedom Day Market on Thursday, June 19. Taking place at the vibrant Center Street Promenade, this special event is free and open to the public.
The Juneteenth Freedom Day Market will feature an exciting mix of local vendors, art, music, food, and community activations—all honoring the spirit and significance of Juneteenth. Attendees can expect a lively, family-friendly atmosphere filled with opportunities to support small businesses, engage with Black creatives, and enjoy the rich cultural heritage being celebrated.
The event is hosted in partnership with the Anaheim Farmers Market and is part of a broader initiative to highlight diverse voices and foster inclusivity within the community.
Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom
Buena Park - Boisseranc Park
Get ready for an evening of fun, music, and celebration at the City of Buena Park’s 2nd annual Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom! Happening on Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM at Boisseranc Park, this free event is packed with excitement for the whole family. Enjoy delicious bites from food trucks, shop local vendors, and let the kids explore fun activities. The night will shine with live performances by local talent and a high-energy concert from Biscuits & Gravy Live. Plus, don’t miss an inspiring message from Rev. Kenneth Curry, Pastor of Friendship Baptist Church in Yorba Linda.
Gospel Voices of OC
Orange - Chapman University
Join the Gospel Voices of OC on June 22 for a celebration of the arts featuring live musical and theatrical performances at the Juneteenth Event at Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University. Tickets start at $37 for the 6 PM showing. This year’s theme is “Sacred Sounds, Soulful Queens” which honors the women who shaped America’s artistic history.
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