Across the county, libraries and cities are championing Black heritage and culture this week in celebration of Juneteenth.
Juneteenth, or Freedom Day, is a cultural celebration commemorating the day that slavery came to an end in the United States – June 19, 1865.
[Read: Orange County Gears Up For Juneteenth Celebrations]
Although the Emancipation Proclamation freed slaves held within Union territories and most Confederate territories in January 1863, it wasn’t until 1865 that freedom made its way to the Confederacy’s westernmost territory in Texas.
That day, more than 250,000 enslaved people gained their freedom.
Although the holiday has been celebrated in African American communities for some time, Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021.
Here are a few noteworthy free events happening this week in celebration of Juneteenth.
Saturday, June 15
Juneteenth Festival in Anaheim
Celebrate unity and togetherness at the Juneteenth Festival at Pearson Park.
When: 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Where: 400 N. Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805
Cost: Free
For more details, contact (714) 579-9966
Wednesday, June 19
Juneteenth Celebration at Anaheim Central Library
Celebrate Freedom Day at the Anaheim Central Library with art, music and food.
When: 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Where: 500 W Broadway, Anaheim, CA 92805
Cost: Free
For more details, email Senior Librarian Lucky Duran at lduran@anaheim.net
Juneteenth Celebration for Teens at Cypress Library
Teens ages 12-17 are welcome to celebrate Juneteenth at the Cypress Library.
When: 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Where: 5331 Orange Ave, Cypress, CA 90630
Cost: Free
For more details, contact the library at (714) 826-0350
Juneteenth Celebration in Buena Park
Attend a Juneteenth celebration at Boisseranc Park in Buena Park. The celebration includes food, live performances, informational booths, live music, guest speakers and more.
When: 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Boisseranc Park, 7520 Dale St, Buena Park, CA 90620
Cost: Free
For more details, contact the Community Services Department at (714) 562-3860
Saturday, June 22
Juneteenth Freedom Celebration in Irvine
Learn about Black culture and the significance of Juneteenth at the 3rd Annual Juneteenth Freedom Celebration at Irvine’s Great Park. Enjoy music, poetry, art, activities, live performances and local organizations.
When: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Great Park, 8000 Great Park Blvd., Irvine, California 92618
Cost: Free
For questions, please contact hello@irvinejuneteenth.com
Juneteenth Picnic in Santa Ana
Enjoy food vendors and live music at the Juneteenth Picnic at Centennial Park. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets.
When: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Centennial Park, 3000 W Edinger Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92704
Cost: Free
For questions, please contact event organizer Soundskilz at (877) 357.5459
If you know of a free public agency event that the Voice of OC should be aware of, send an email to etaylor@voiceofoc.org
For more events, please refer to the Voice of OC Calendar.
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