Celebrate Juneteenth the San Francisco Way
Juneteenth is just around the corner, and San Francisco has no shortage of celebratory events this week.
Juneteenth, celebrated nationally on June 19th, 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 and parade along Fillmore Street. The event usually draws some 75,000 people to the Fillmore District for the parade, a classic car show, hair and fashion show, and much more.
Here are some of the Juneteenth events you can attend throughout the week!
USDA Juneteenth Roundtable at GLIDE
Friday, June 15 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. GLIDE 330 Ellis St.This roundtable discussion featuring speakers from both USDA and Glide will open up a conversation surrounding racial equity and barriers to food and nutrition. There will also be musical selections and performances from community members. If you are unable to attend, this event will also be live streamed. This event is free to attend.
Event DetailsSF Black Wall Street Inaugural Juneteenth Gala
Friday, June 15 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. The Hibernia Bank 1 Jones StreetSan Francisco Black Wall Street is hosting its inaugural Juneteenth Gala, with the theme “Cut the Check,” as a call for economic justice for San Francisco’s Black community. This event will take place at Hibernia Bank, and will feature appearances from Donell Jones and Lenny Williams, food by local Black entrepreneurs, guest speakers and awards. The gala is a free admission, 18+ event, and guests over 21 will be able to purchase alcoholic beverages.
Get TicketsJuneteenth Kick-Off Celebration featuring Mayor London Breed
Friday, June 16 12 p.m. San Francisco City HallThe San Francisco Human Rights Commission is hosting its second annual Juneteenth celebration with Mayor London Breed, which will kick off the weekend of celebrations and is free to attend.
Fillmore Juneteenth SF Freedom Celebration
Saturday, June 17 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Fillmore DistrictThis eight-block celebration in the Fillmore District is host to six different “districts,” all offering different activities and celebrations. Featuring live performances by Ray J and Steve Parker, ethnic cuisine and food trucks, carnival activities for the whole family, a classic car show, organized sports competitions and a hair and fashion show, this festival is an all day activity with a lot of things to check out!
Event DetailsSixth Annual Black Food & Wine Experience - Juneteenth
Saturday, June 17 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. 1 Ferry BuildingPut on by Chef Mimi, this event features a variety of tastings and restaurant experiences that aim to bridge together food, beverage, education, health, and Black culture. If you are unable to attend the Grand Tasting on Saturday, there is an event every day from the 13th to the 17th!
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FAM BAM! Oakland’s 14th Annual Juneteenth Festival!
Saturday, June 17 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. Lake Merritt BoulevardThis festival in Oakland celebrating Black culture promotes education, unity and pride. This year, the festival will include a keynote speech by congressional candidate Lateefah Simon and a headline performance by LaRussell.
Get TicketsJuneteenth Paint Night and Live Entertainment
Saturday, June 17 7 p.m - 10 p.m. Honey Art Studio 1981 Sutter St.Juneteenth Paint Night will feature live music, paint night and networking along with the option to purchase a meal!
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Julia Middlebrook is a rising senior at the University of Colorado Boulder, pursuing a degree in Communication and Business. She joins the San Francisco Travel marketing team this summer after having previously worked in the public policy division. 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.
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