Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation and freedom of Black men, women and children from slavery throughout the United States. A holiday with as much gravity deserves to celebrate freedom in the most special and memorable way possible. Fortunately, for Arizonans, the state is set to mark the occasion with a variety of musical celebrations, historical lessons and more.
Here’s how to celebrate Juneteenth 2022 in Arizona this year:
Get festive at the Valley of the Sun Juneteenth Celebration
Happening at Eastlake Park in Phoenix, the Valley of the Sun Juneteenth Celebration will celebrate the historic holiday in the grandest way possible, with local known musical performers, free health screenings, educational workshops, a youth essay contest, children’s activities, arts and crafts, vendors, games and the finest authentic soul food. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.
Marvel at the Binns Wildflower Pavilion
On June 19, the Valley’s beloved Desert Botanical Garden will transform into a hub for Juneteenth celebrations—with visitors given the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Senegalese Sabar Drumming Performance and a hands-on musical experience, all in the heart of the Binns Wildflower Pavilion. For more information, visit www.dbg.org.
Wind down at the Second-Annual Juneteenth Winefest
Culture, community and really great wine all come together at the 2nd Annual Juneteenth Winefest—which will celebrate minority business owners through locally-geared activities, food trucks, spirits from African American wineries and more. For more information, visit juneteenthwinefest.com.
Take in the sounds at Culture Music in the Park
Chandler’s premier Juneteenth celebration, Culture Music in the Park, will honor the longstanding contributions of the Black community to music on June 18, with live performances from local talents including Vaughn Willis and Ear Candy, and Master of Ceremony, Keasha Beach, executive director of Base Arizona. Take in the tunes of the culture in style for free at this public showcase. For more information, visit www.business.chandlerchamber.com.
Shop at the BlackJoy: Juneteenth Market
On June 17 and June 18, shoppers can get in on the spirit of the holiday and support Black businesses all in one space at the BlackJoy: Juneteenth Market at The Downtown Clifton Hotel Tucson. The free market space that will bring together some of Arizona’s finest Black-owned businesses for a shopping showcase like no other. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.
Dance, shop and dine during Juneteenth Celebration at CenterPoint Plaza
From 7 to 10 p.m. in Downtown Tempe, take part in the ultimate historical exploration and celebration of Black Joy in honor of Juneteenth. This free local event, taking place in CenterPoint Plaza, will include interactive education, live music, line dancing, food and drinks, a collection of local Black-owned businesses, a Black Art Showcase and much more. For more information, visit www.downtowntempe.com.
Savor brunch at SugarJam The Southern Kitchen
SugarJam The Southern Kitchen in North Scottsdale is celebrating Juneteenth and Father’s Day with Brunch, Brims and Beards. This holiday brunch event will take place on June 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will feature a special menu (with eats like Papa’s Brisket and Biscuits, bacon cupcakes and more) and entertainment from SugarJam’s resident DJ. For more information, visit sjsouthernkitchen.com.