Juneteenth celebration at the Ferry Building

Celebrate Juneteenth the San Francisco Way

By Julia Middlebrook

Juneteenth is just around the corner, and San Francisco has no shortage of celebratory events.

Juneteenth, celebrated nationally on June 19, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Although Juneteenth only became a national holiday in 2021, San Francisco has held events and celebrations annually since 1950.

Each year since, San Francisco’s Juneteenth celebrations have honored the achievements and determination of the Black community with a festival along Fillmore Street. The event usually draws some 75,000 people to the Fillmore District for a classic car show, hair and fashion show, and much more.

Here are some of the Juneteenth events you can attend this year!

Juneteenth on the Waterfront

Celebrate local Black-owned businesses at the sixth annual Juneteenth on the Waterfront on Sunday, June 7, 2026. Kick off a month of Juneteenth celebrations in San Francisco with a day of delicious food, crafts, and community at Ferry Building, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cooking demos from local chefs Tatiana Thomas, Nelson German, and Andréa Lawson Gray will be part of the activation.

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San Francisco Juneteenth Parade and Festival

Market and Second streets

The fourth Annual San Francisco Juneteenth Parade is scheduled for June 20, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Market and Second streets. Enjoy vibrant floats from community organizations, schools, and corporate partners as the parade makes its way through the city. The celebration concludes with a lively festival at Embarcadero and Harry Bridges Plaza, featuring a classic car showcase, live music, dance performances, and a special tribute to heroes and icons.

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Fillmore Juneteenth SF Freedom Celebration

Fillmore Street between Geary Boulevard and Fulton Street

This eight-block celebration in the Fillmore District features six distinct “districts,” each offering a range of activities and events. There will be food trucks, carnival activities for the whole family, a classic car show, and a hair and fashion show. The festival will take place on June 13, 2026.

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Hella Juneteenth: "The Cookout"

Oakland Museum of California

1000 Oak Street

Hella Creative will host "The Cookout," a celebration at the Oakland Museum of California Garden. The event will feature Black chefs and Black-owned food vendors from the Bay Area. This event celebrates Black culture and freedom through cuisine, live music, games, and activities. Attendees can listen to sets by local DJs, participate in dance challenges, and enjoy family-friendly fun.

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San Francisco Bayview Juneteenth

Head out to Bayview Sunday, June 21, for the Juneteenth Father's Day festival. The event will feature live musical performances. Enjoy amusement park rides, retail and food vendors, prize giveaways, and much more! RSVP now to secure your free admission!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is the national holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It is celebrated on June 19 each year—but San Francisco has weeks of events planned for visitors to enjoy!

What kind of events are happening in San Francisco for Juneteenth?

Parades, concerts, dances, car shows, and food festivals will be happening all month long to commemorate Juneteenth.

Are Juneteenth events free?

Some of them are! Others, while not having a cost, may still require a RSVP to ensure an optimal visitor experience.

What else should I know about Juneteenth in San Francisco?

While Juneteenth was only made a national holiday in 2021, San Franciscans have been observing the holiday with public events since the 1950s.

Julia Middlebrook

Julia Middlebrook is a graduate of the University of Colorado Boulder and a former San Francisco Travel intern. Born and raised in San Francisco and having done just about everything there is to do in it, Julia is passionate about spreading her love for the city and will always consider it the best place in the world.