News

Actions

Juneteenth in Arizona: 7 celebrations, festivals happening around the state

Posted at 2:02 PM, Jun 13, 2016
and last updated 2016-06-13 17:58:57-04

President Abraham Lincoln delivered his Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863.

However, it took more than two years for the news to make its way down to Texas. On June 19, 1865 Union soldiers delivered the news, ending slavery in Texas.

Since then, Juneteenth celebrations and festivals have taken place to commemorate that day, as well as African American culture.

Seven events are planned around the state. Scroll down for more information.

 

Chandler’s Juneteenth event: A Celebration Through Song (June 17)

Chandler's Juneteenth celebration takes place at the Chandler Center for the Arts. The pre-show starts at 6 p.m. with the main event at 7 p.m. The Memphis Best BBQ food truck will be there during the pre-show. Marcia Love, Britahn Newbill, John King, III & Vessels of Worshop, Shavonne Burnett, Pilgrim Rest Mass choir and Minister John Reed and the Order of the Levites are scheduled to perform. It is free, but donations will be accepted to support the Chandler Christian Community Center and South Chandler Self-Help Foundation, Inc.

IF YOU GO:
Where: Chandler Center for the Art
Time: Doors open at 6 p.m. Show starts at 7 p.m.
Admission: Free

 

Tempe’s Juneteenth celebration (June 18)

Tempe's Juneteenth Celebration is put on by the City of Tempe and the Tempe History Museum's African American Advisory Committee. This year's event will have poetry, presentations, performances and activities for the kids.

IF YOU GO:
Where: Tempe History Museum, 809 E. Southern Avenue
Time: 3 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Admission: Free

 

Valley of the Sun Juneteenth celebration (June 18)

The Valley of the Sun Juneteenth celebration will take place at the Eastlake Park and Community Center. It's celebrating 151 years since the Emancipation Proclamation was delivered to Texas. It will be hosted by Camille Sledge. There will be vendors, community booths, a kids zone and performances.

IF YOU GO:
Where: Eastlake Park and Community Center, 1549 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix 85034
Time: 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Admission: Free

 

Flagstaff Juneteenth: A Celebration of Emancipation (June 18)

Head over to the Murdoch Community Center for Flagstaff's Juneteenth celebration. The event is presented by Coconino County African Advisory Council, Northern Arizona University and Southside Community Association. There will be food, live music and entertainment on the main stage.

IF YOU GO:
Where: Murdoch Community Center, 203 E. Brannen Avenue, Flagstaff AZ 86001
Time: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Admission: Free

 

Tucson Juneteenth: The struggle for freedom continues (June 18)

Tucson's Juneteenth celebration will take place at the Donna Liggins Center. There will be food, entertainment, community resources and presentations.

IF YOU GO:
Where: Donna Liggins Center, 2160 N. 6th Avenue, Tucson AZ 85705
Time: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Admission: Free

 

Yuma Juneteenth celebration (June 18)

At the Yuma Juneteenth celebration, there will be food, games and activities for the kids, worship, music and a 3v3 basketball tournament. It will take place at Carver Park.

IF YOU GO:
Where: Carver Park in Yuma (Fifth Street and 13th Avenue)
Time: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Admission: Free

 

Juneteenth Black Expo: Honor Thy Father (June 19)

Everyone is welcome to the Juneteenth Black Expo in Phoenix. There will be a gospel showcase, live entertainment, a Father's Day fashion show, an award presentation and soul food.

IF YOU GO:
Where: American Royal Palace, 1915 W. Thunderbird Road, Phoenix AZ 85023
Time: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Admission: Free