By Caroline Reilly, Summer Marketing Intern
With Juneteenth coming up on Thursday, June 19th, Downtown Jacksonville has a variety of upcoming events that will honor this meaningful day in American history. This year marks the 160th anniversary of the holiday and we are coming together to celebrate its legacy of freedom, resilience and progress. Celebrate as a community with us in DTJax!
Learn about Downtown’s Black History
Photo by: @visit_jax
Curious about Black history in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville? Discover hidden history on every corner with a Black Heritage Tour by Explore Jax Core. It’s a unique opportunity to ride through time and celebrate the legacy and impact of Jacksonville’s Black community.
Pop out at the Pop-Out!
Photo by: @april.visuals
What better way to celebrate than with music? Join PlacemakingJax for The Pop- Out, a Live Black Music series at Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park. Listen to live performances from local artists and celebrate Black artistry through the power of music. This event is free to all ages and open to the entire community—come out and be part of the celebration!
Support Black-Owned Businesses
Photo by: @jaxmelaninmarket
Music, food vendors, cultural workshops, and so much more! Jax Melanin Market is putting on their annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 14th. Celebrate freedom, culture, and community while supporting Black- owned businesses. Shop, eat, learn, and vibe all in one unforgettable day. Register to attend here.
Visit the Museum
Photo by: @findyourjax
Looking to learn more about local Black history? The Ritz Museum’s permanent exhibit “Lift Ev’ry Voice” puts a spotlight on Jacksonville native’s and their impact on the local Black community, both past and present.. Through photos, artifacts and personal stories, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the legacy and ongoing contributions of the Black community in Jacksonville. Get tickets here.
Hear from One of Jacksonville’s Leaders
Photo by: @moshjax
Jump on this opportunity to meet a living Jacksonville legend! Join MOSH on June 18th as they host Nathaniel Glover to for an inspiring discussion of his book, “Striving for Justice: A Black Sheriff in the Deep South”. The event is free to MOSH members and $12 for non-members. Come be apart of the conversation and hear his story firsthand. Learn more here.
Juneteenth Celebration at LEVS
Photo by: @levspark
Party in the park! Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park is hosting a Juneteenth celebration June 18th to commemorate the 160th anniversary of this momentous holiday. Enjoy a yoga class, free storytelling, food vendors and an overall joyous celebration in the community.
We are so excited to celebrate this important holiday here in Downtown Jacksonville! Join us in honoring, the past, present and looking towards the future.