With summer right around the corner, this is the perfect time to join the local community in Greater Miami & Miami Beach in celebrating Juneteenth – a holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. African Americans have observed this meaningful holiday for more than 150 years. Black history is deeply embedded in Miami’s culturally rich neighborhoods, where you can dive into Juneteenth festivities.
View the full published article on the Greater Miami & Miami Beach Tourism Bureau website.
History Of Juneteenth
Juneteenth is named after the historic date of June 19, 1865, when U.S. General Gordon Granger announced the freedom of enslaved individuals in Galveston, Texas, nearly two-and-a-half years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth marks the date when more than 250,000 African Americans learned they were freed from slavery. Also known as the United States’ Second Independence Day, the date was officially designated a federal holiday in June 2021. Juneteenth is a time to revere Black ancestors, reflect on the country's history and collectively celebrate Black freedom.
Greater Miami & Miami Beach is hosting several events celebrating Juneteenth in 2023.
Nova Star Juneteenth Scholarship Competition Show
June 10
Cheer on talented Florida International University (FIU) students at the second annual Nova Star Juneteenth Scholarship Competition Show at the Biscayne Bay Campus in North Miami. FIU’s weeklong Juneteenth Celebration kick starts with this competition featuring FIU's Nova Court of college students who embody leadership qualities, a passion for social justice issues, and dedication to the FIU community and beyond. Contestants have a chance to win more than $7,500 in scholarships, including a grand prize of $3,000 for the top winner. Competition categories include FIU spirit and speeches about social justice. The event will be held from 7 - 10 p.m.
Juneteenth Juke Joint
June 14
Head to Downtown Miami to groove and celebrate Juneteenth in style at the second annual Juneteenth Juke Joint at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. Enjoy a happy hour with soul food and libations specially curated by Chef Dominique Walkers. Dance to pan-African beats mixed by DJ Shacia Päyne Marley and vibe to the soulful tunes of Grammy-nominated saxophonist and educator, Melton Mustafa Jr. The event begins at 7 p.m.; tickets are $35.
Artwalk Presents Richmond Heights Juneteenth Celebration
June 16
Discover the history of Richmond Heights, a thriving African American community in South Dade, at the Richmond Heights Juneteenth Celebration. Richmond Heights grew after World War II as a neighborhood for African American veterans seeking affordable housing. Enjoy live music, DJ performances, Black art and activities for all ages from 5 - 9 p.m. at this free cultural arts festival presented by Artwalk. Sample delicious fare from food trucks, browse artisan vendors and check out the alternative flea market at The Black Market MIA.
Copa Cabana
June 17
As part of the Juneteenth weekend, Copa Cabana honors Haitian culture on the sandy beaches of Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. Copa Cabana brings generations together for a day filled with delicious bites, musical performances and blue waters at the historic location that was once a “Colored Only” beach during the era of segregation. This year's music lineup features headlining Haitian band Kaï, along with Roody Roodboy and Nico from Enposib. The event is hosted by Success Jr. and FLAV Gabel. Wear your beach attire, grab a drink and enjoy Caribbean dishes served by local vendors. The event is from 3 - 11 p.m., and tickets start at $25.
Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration
June 17
Florida International University’s weeklong Juneteenth events continue with the third annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration from 1 - 5 p.m. at the Modesto A. Maidique Campus in Westchester. Find fun activities for the entire family, including live music and dancing, local vendors and food trucks. Grab a lawn chair or blanket and gather with locals to commemorate African American freedom while learning about how communities can continue making progress. The event is free, but registration is required.
Juneteenth Park-In & Party Experience In The Gardens
June 17
Experience the Black culture of Miami Gardens at the iconic Hard Rock Stadium for the third annual Juneteenth Park-In and Party Celebration. Hosted by comedian Marvin Dixon and featuring DJ Bo Weezy, the celebration will feature local talent showcasing the community's diversity, unity and achievements. The event is presented by City of Miami Gardens Vice Mayor Katrina Wilson, Councilman Reggie Leon and Councilman Robert L. Stephens III. General admission is $10 per car, and the event begins at 5 p.m.
Family West African Dance & Drum Class
June 18
Join the Delou Africa Dance Ensemble for the Family West African Dance & Drum Class, the Juneteenth edition of the three-part series called Arts & Culture in the Gardens. The series highlights traditional African arts to highlight Black culture, ancient folklore and customs passed down through generations. Connect with dancers, drummers and art lovers, and take a class taught by professional artists for an evening filled with Black creativity at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex in Miami Gardens. This event, held from 1 - 5 p.m., is appropriate for all ages. Admission is free, but pre-registration is required.
The Juneteenth Experience
June 19
Hued Songs presents The Juneteenth Experience at the Miami Beach Bandshell in North Beach. It’s a multidisciplinary performance that celebrates Miami’s Black arts and culture scene. Doors open at 6 p.m., followed by a film screening at 6:30 p.m. before the show begins at 8 p.m. Artists and performers include Arsimmer Mccoy, Chauncy Riley, Darius Manuel, Eden Marte, Jasmine Williams, J'Von Brown, King Friday, Miriam King, and members of the Zest Dance Collective.
Juneteenth For Kids Celebration
June 19
Miami Children’s Museum in Downtown Miami is dedicated to helping kids learn in a fun environment. On Juneteenth – June 19 – it will host a Juneteenth Celebration all day long. Activities and learning opportunities include story time, a fun dance party, decorating Juneteenth flags and wearables, and an exciting Juneteenth parade.
More Juneteenth events happening around Miami.
Explore Black Businesses & Landmarks
Continue the celebration of African American culture by exploring Miami's traditionally Black neighborhoods. Historic Overtown, Liberty City, Little Haiti and others are culturally rich destinations. Dine at Historic Overtown restaurants like Jackson Soul Food, Red Rooster Overtown and Lil Greenhouse Grill in the neighborhood once known as the Harlem of the South. Stroll through Liberty City as you explore historic Black landmarks like the Historic Hampton House, Liberty Square and the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center. Head to Little Haiti and check out the Caribbean Marketplace at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex.