I learned a lot of things during the Black Lives Matter movement last year. One of my most important takeaways? That we should all start celebrating Juneteenth. There is so much Black History that was not taught in schools, and admittedly, I didn’t grow up celebrating Juneteenth because I had no idea what it was. Scroll down to find out the best local Juneteenth events in Los Angeles!
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. I grew up thinking that the day Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation was the day slavery ended in the U.S. However, back in the day, there was no TV, radio, or social media, and messengers had to spread the word by foot. That meant that the last group of slaves in the U.S. in Galveston, Texas, were freed on June 19, 1865, when a Union general made his way to town and announced the news.
Juneteenth was a big step forward for the entire nation, and quite frankly, I view it as the independence day for my ancestors. More state and local governments are recognizing this holiday, and there are many ways to celebrate.
If you’re not in Los Angeles, you can show your support on Juneteenth by shopping at Black-owned businesses or dining at Black-owned restaurants. If you are in LA this weekend, there are many fantastic, free and budget-friendly events open to the public to celebrate the holiday.
Juneteenth Events in Los Angeles – Top 5 Things to Do:
Leimert Park Rising: Juneteenth Celebration
People of all ages are welcome people of all ages to attend this festival, which includes a full day of art, live music, salon discussions, food, dancing, and more. Entry for this event is free, but consider donating to help keep events like this accessible to the general public. RSVP here.
Date: June 19, 2021
Time: 11 AM – 9 PM
Location: Leimert Park, 4343 Leimert Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90008
SoulfulofNoise Juneteenth Concert
A free concert? Sign me up! The SoulfulofNoise concert will feature performances by some of the best independent artists in the nation, and Black-owned businesses will be on-site for you to shop as well. RSVP here.
Date: June 19, 2021
Time: 2 – 6 PM
Location: Comfort LA, 1110 East 7th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Juneteenth Celebration Trail Run/Hike @ Griffith Park
Why not celebrate Juneteenth by connecting with nature? At this event, you can join outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels and hike a trail where you can explore some of the best hidden gems that Griffith Park has to offer. At the end of the hike, there will be music and refreshments provided. This event is free, but you can purchase raffle tickets to win a new pair of hiking shoes and many more prizes. Buy raffle tickets here.
Date: June 19, 2021
Time: 8 AM – 12 PM
Location: Old Los Angeles Zoo, 4801 Griffith Park Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027
THE PRSVR PICNIC
Folks: this isn’t your average picnic. This event hosted by the PRSVR Store is a jam-packed day of education, elevation, and celebration for the entire family. The PRSVR Picnic is part open bar, part brunch, part paint n sip, part dance party, part shopping spree – but ALL fun. Guestlist is limited — make sure to purchase tickets in advance. Buy tickets here.
Date: June 19, 2021
Time: 11 AM – 8 PM
Location: The PRSVR Store, 1855 North Victory Place, Burbank, CA 91504
Juneteenth Celebration & Resource Fair
Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell is hosting a free event on Juneteenth for the community, including music, food trucks, guest speakers and performers, and free community services. Register here.
Date: June 19, 2021
Time: 11 AM – 3 PM
Location: Earvin “Magic” Johnson Park, 905 E. El Segundo Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90059
What Juneteenth events are you attending this year? Let me know in the comments below!
Photos by Tom McGovern
