Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, commemorates the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas in 1865—marking the true end of slavery in the United States. In recent years, the holiday has evolved into a national day of reflection, celebration, and cultural pride, and nowhere is that spirit more alive than in South Florida.
With its deep-rooted Black communities, historic neighborhoods, and thriving cultural institutions, South Florida offers a diverse lineup of Juneteenth events. From beachfront festivals to museum exhibits and soulful concerts, this guide outlines the best ways to honor Juneteenth across Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach in 2025.
Juneteenth in Miami-Dade: Legacy, Music, and History
Virginia Key Beach Bash
This historic beach—once the only shoreline accessible to Black residents in Jim Crow-era Miami—now hosts a vibrant Juneteenth family festival. Expect live music, food trucks, bounce houses, storytelling sessions, and civil rights history workshops all with a coastal backdrop.

Freedom Fest in Historic Overtown
Overtown, Miami’s original Black neighborhood, becomes the heartbeat of cultural celebration during Freedom Fest. Held at the Lyric Theater plaza, this day festival features live soul and gospel music, local food vendors, line dancing, and history exhibits.

The Juneteenth Experience by Hued Songs
At the Colony Theater in Miami Beach, Hued Songs presents a live multidisciplinary concert blending gospel, jazz, dance, and spoken word. The immersive production offers an emotional journey through the themes of liberation and resilience.

Pérez Art Museum & HistoryMiami Programming
Two of Miami’s leading cultural institutions open their doors for Juneteenth with free admission and activities. At PAMM, families participate in art workshops centered on Black creativity. Meanwhile, HistoryMiami Museum hosts storytelling, live performances, and hands-on exhibits reflecting Miami’s African-American roots.

Community Celebrations in North Miami
North Miami embraces Juneteenth with two back-to-back events. The daytime Spades Tournament draws local players together in a celebration of Black tradition and fellowship. In the evening, the Juneteenth Festival lights up Griffing Community Center with live R&B, soul food, and cultural vendors in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.

Fort Lauderdale’s Cultural Showcases & Community Pride
Carter Park Celebration
This city-sponsored event blends music, poetry, dance, and heritage into a lively block-party atmosphere. Featuring step teams, local DJs, spoken-word artists, and games, it’s a high-energy, family-friendly event in central Fort Lauderdale.

Juneteenth at the African-American Research Library
The AARLCC hosts an evening event titled “Destination Freedom,” combining music, food, and a curated program celebrating Black cowboy history, resistance storytelling, and modern cultural expression.

The Juneteenth Experience at Parker Playhouse
Fort Lauderdale’s edition of Hued Songs’ theatrical concert features live musical performances and original choreography in an immersive stage experience.

Juneteenth B.L.A.C. Cook-Off
Hosted at Snyder Park, this annual cook-off celebrates Black culinary excellence and LGBTQ+ pride. The community gathers for food competitions, fellowship, and local vendor showcases in a casual, picnic-style atmosphere.

West Palm Beach & Delray: Culture, Art, and Community Spirit
Juneteenth Community Day at the Norton Museum of Art
This free day of art, music, and storytelling welcomes families and travelers alike. Visitors can enjoy live performances, gallery talks on Black art history, drumming circles, and youth activities throughout the museum.

Spady Museum Mural Workshop
Leading up to Juneteenth, the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum in Delray Beach hosts a collaborative art program focused on Adinkra symbols and community storytelling. The murals created are unveiled on Juneteenth and displayed publicly.

Unity x Black Excellence Festival at Meyer Amphitheatre
With an HBCU spirit and downtown waterfront setting, this evening festival combines food trucks, live music, small business vendors, and games to celebrate unity, freedom, and pride.

Glades Youth Talent Showcase
In western Palm Beach County, local mentors organize a talent explosion for youth ages 5 to 18. This high-energy event highlights emerging Black talent in the Belle Glade and Pahokee communities through singing, dancing, and instrumental performance.

Tips for Experiencing Juneteenth in South Florida
- Arrive Early: Many events are free and attract large crowds—especially museum programs and park festivals.
- Support Local: Most celebrations include local Black-owned vendors and performers. Bring cash or cards to support small businesses.
- Dress for the Weather: June is hot and humid. Sunscreen, hats, and hydration are a must.
- Be Respectful & Curious: Many programs include education around emancipation and local Black history. Listen, ask questions, and engage with an open mind.

Juneteenth in South Florida isn’t just a commemoration—it’s a full celebration of freedom, creativity, and cultural resilience. Whether you’re a traveler, a local, or hosting guests in your short-term rental, these events and destinations provide meaningful ways to reflect, learn, and enjoy the vibrancy of the communities who continue to shape Florida’s story.
From sunrise on Virginia Key to sunset concerts in West Palm Beach, South Florida’s Juneteenth programming proves that remembrance and joy can—and should—go hand in hand.