Throughout Anaheim and Orange County, community members will gather to celebrate freedom during Juneteenth events. The celebration commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States who learned of their freedom on June 19, 1865 in Galveston, Texas, two years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.
Observed annually on June 19th, the day earned its name from the combination of “June” and “nineteenth.” Juneteenth, or Emancipation Day, became an official federal holiday in 2021.
Juneteenth Celebrations
Juneteenth Festival at Pearson Park l June 15, 2024
For the first time, Anaheim is set to host Orange County Heritage Council’s Juneteenth Festival at Pearson Park on Saturday, June 15 from 12 - 7 PM. The free community cultural event will feature music, entertainment, vendors, and community spirit. The OC Heritage Council sponsors this event so that the community can learn the importance of maintaining unity and equality for everyone. The event will take place in the Pearson Park Amphitheatre.
Gospel Voices of OC l June 8, 2024
Join the Gospel Voices of OC 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 $38 for the 7 PM showing. This year’s theme is “Sacred Sounds, Soulful Queens” which honors the women who shaped America’s artistic history.
Juneteenth Symposium l June 13-14, 2024
Register now for the virtual Juneteenth Symposium hosted by the Cal State University (CSU) system in partnership with Sacramento State as the host campus. The two-day online event presents a variety of world-class speakers, panel discussions, and performances meant to celebrate and recognize African American history and achievement, while also inspiring progress.
Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom at Boisseranc Park l June 19, 2024
The City of Buena Park welcomes the community to its inaugural Juneteenth celebration at Boisseranc Park from 6-9 PM on June 19, 2024. The Celebration of Freedom will be both informational and entertaining with guest speakers, food, community booths, a kids' area, plus live performances including a concert from Biscuits and Gravy Live. The event is free for all to attend.
Earl Thomas featuring Sister Leola l June 21, 2024
Enjoy the sounds of two-time GRAMMY-nominated Blues artist Earl Thomas at the Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center. With a catalog spanning three decades, the musical legend has made an impact in the genre earning accolades from names including Etta James and Sir Tom Jones. Tickets for the 8 PM performance begin at $30.
Pretend City Children's Museum
Additional celebrations throughout Orange County to consider.
Celebrate Black Music Day l June 2, 2024
Get ready to dance! Pretend City Children’s Museum in Irvine hosts Kymberly Stewart, GRAMMY-nominated singer and early childhood music educator for two showtimes of music and movement ideal for preschoolers at 11 AM and 2:30 PM. Admission is $19.95 for both adults and children.
Sign Up for The Anaheim Update!
Stay in the loop on the latest and greatest events in Anaheim and Orange County! Sign up for Anaheim Update to stay informed and never miss out.
