Celebrate Freedom: 2025 Juneteenth Central Florida Event Guide
For June 2025, Juneteenth events in Central Florida will be a powerful blend of reflection, celebration, education, and activism. Since Juneteenth was officially recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, it has gained prominence as a day of reflection on the history of slavery, the ongoing struggles for racial justice, and the celebration of African American culture. In Central Florida, local organizations, civic groups, and cultural institutions have been organizing diverse events that commemorate this significant moment in American history.
Overview of Juneteenth
On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, effectively ending slavery in the United States. Although the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed by President Lincoln in 1863, many enslaved people in the South remained unaware of their freedom. Juneteenth has since become a time for celebration, reflection, and an opportunity to educate about the legacy of slavery and the ongoing fight for racial equity. In Central Florida, cities such as Orlando, Kissimmee, and St. Petersburg are renowned for hosting diverse events that celebrate this significant day in American history.
Major Juneteenth Events in Central FL
1. Kissimmee Juneteenth Festival
Kissimmee will host a vibrant day of celebration with a mix of arts, culture, and entertainment. This event is expected to have a variety of local vendors selling African American crafts, art, and clothing. The event will also highlight local Black-owned businesses and feature cooking demonstrations of Southern soul food.
Highlights:
Historical Exhibitions: Displays detailing the significance of Juneteenth and Florida’s role in the Civil Rights Movement will be available for attendees.
Live Music & Dance: Expect a blend of genres, from hip-hop and R&B to soul and blues performances throughout the festival.
Date: June 14th, 2025 12:00 PM-4:00 PM
Location: Kissimmee Civic Center, 201 E. Dakin Ave. Kissimmee, Florida 34741
2. 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration
Winter Park may not be known for its rich African American culture, but on Juneteenth, you will learn about the significant contributions African Americans made in this beautiful city at its annual Juneteenth Music & Arts Festival. There will be a series of art exhibitions and performances showcasing the diverse talents of Black Floridians.
Highlights:
Live Performances: From jazz and blues to modern hip-hop, the festival will have something for every music lover.
Art Walk: A curated art walk will display work from Black artists, including painters, sculptors, and photographers who will explore themes related to Juneteenth.
Date: June 14, 2025, from 10 AM - 2 PM
Location: The Hannibal Square Heritage Center - 642 W. New England Ave, Winter Park, Florida 32789
3. Juneteenth DeLand Festival
Celebrate freedom and community this Saturday, which features live entertainment, performances by local legend talent, a dedicated children’s center full of fun activities, a variety of vendors, and a powerful Black history tribute. It’s a day of joy, culture, and connection you won’t want to miss!
Highlights:
Local Legend Talent: Live performances spotlighting DeLand’s cultural heartbeat.
Food Vendors: A vibrant lineup serving up community flavors, bringing a unique taste of the culture while celebrating rich culinary traditions.
Date: Saturday, June 15, 2024 from 10AM-3PM
Location: Wayne G. Sanborn Center - 815 South Alabama Avenue, DeLand, FL, 32724 United States
4. 5th Annual Facets of Freedom
This Juneteenth festival kicks off with a Historical Children’s Lunch and Learn 10 am-1 pm, featuring engaging book readings, art stations, fun face painting, and exciting prize giveaways. Throughout the day, there will be live entertainment, a stroll through the market, savoring black-owned food trucks, and the opportunity to appreciate African-American artists. Performances continue from 6-8 pm in the Universal Theater. The event will feature special exhibitions on African American history in Central Florida.
Highlights:
Live Storytelling: Local historians and cultural activists will share personal stories of freedom and perseverance.
Hands-on Activities for Kids: Interactive exhibits that allow children to learn about Juneteenth and American history through fun and engaging activities.
Date: June 19, 2025, from 10AM-9PM
Location: Orlando Family Stage, Loch Haven Park - 1001 East Princeton Street, Orlando, FL 32803
5. Juneteenth Unity (Tampa Bay Area)
This festival is part of a weeklong series of Juneteenth events happening throughout Tampa Bay. The multifaceted celebration is a grassroots effort that gathers members of the Tampa Bay community in solidarity, emphasizing social justice and the continued work needed to ensure racial equity and justice for all.
Highlights:
Speakers: Local leaders, activists, and educators will speak at the rally to raise awareness of ongoing civil rights issues.
Variety of Entertainment: The events will cover key points of historic significance for the African American community in Tampa Bay.
Date: June 14th - June 22nd, 2025
Location: Throughout the Tampa Bay Area (click link to check event schedule)
Other Ways to Celebrate in Central FL
Cultural Food Festivals: Many Central Florida eateries and food trucks will offer Juneteenth-inspired menus with Southern staples like fried chicken, cornbread, collard greens, and sweet potato pie. Food trucks will be stationed at various events, offering local, Black-owned culinary businesses the chance to showcase their dishes.
Local Businesses & Pop-Up Markets: Expect pop-up markets featuring local Black artisans, clothing designers, and entrepreneurs who will celebrate African American culture through their work. This will be an opportunity to support Black-owned businesses in the region.
Virtual Events and Livestreams: For those unable to attend in person, many organizations will offer virtual events. These may include performances, lectures, and educational programs that can be streamed online.
Conclusion
Juneteenth in Central Florida in 2025 will be marked by a combination of large-scale festivals, educational programs, and community events that honor the legacy of Juneteenth while also fostering a greater awareness of ongoing racial justice struggles. With a focus on culture, history, and community solidarity, these events will not only celebrate African American achievements but also highlight the ongoing work toward racial equality. Whether you're in Orlando, Kissimmee, St. Petersburg, or Tampa, Central Florida offers a rich variety of events that highlight the significance of Juneteenth and the importance of continuing the work toward freedom, justice, and equality.
