Juneteenth, sometimes called Freedom Day or Jubilee Day, has grown from a local Texas tradition into a nationwide celebration. It marks the moment in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas and announced the freedom of around 250,000 enslaved people—symbolizing the end of slavery in one of the most remote parts of the former Confederacy.
In San Diego, Juneteenth stretches beyond the history books. It spills into parks, libraries, beaches, and backyards. It sounds like live jazz, spoken word, and open mics. It reminds you that liberation looks like a community in motion. There’s no one way to observe Juneteenth. From North Park block parties and dance floors to art exhibitions and Oceanside festivals, here are 12 events that all orbit the same idea: celebration with intention.
How to Celebrate Juneteenth in San Diego
Cooper Family Juneteenth Celebration
June 19
For more than 50 years, the Cooper Family Foundation has been at the heart of San Diego’s Juneteenth celebrations, turning remembrance into one of the city’s most anticipated cultural events. It all began with Sidney Cooper Sr., a businessman and cornerstone of the Black community, who championed Juneteenth long before it became widely recognized.
Today, that legacy continues in full force, carried on by his family and held in loving memory of both Sidney and Thelma Cooper. This free, family-friendly celebration blends history with joy. Prepare for over 100 vendors, five food trucks, a domino tournament, multiple stages featuring live music, African drumming and dance, educational programming, and a dedicated kids’ zone. It’s a day of culture, connection, and community, all rooted in the belief that “We know the past. We shape the future.”
11 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. | 2975 Ocean View Blvd, San Diego
Financial Literacy Pancake Breakfast
June 19
Because financial freedom is part of the conversation, too, this $5 community breakfast pairs syrupy stacks with real talk about generational wealth, investing, and how to build a thriving Black economy. Come for the pancakes, stay for flipping the script on financial education. Bonus: every donation supports 7th and 8th graders who participate in a financial literacy course, and helps kick-start their futures with a $25 boost.
9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | 4900 Memorial Drive, La Mesa
Inaugural Juneteenth San Marcos
June 19
It’s freedom, flavor, and firsts in San Marcos this year with its inaugural Juneteenth celebration at Cal State University San Marcos. The Student Union will host an afternoon of live music, local vendors, family-friendly fun, and community spirit. The standout is the Emancipation Lounge VIP Culinary Experience, a rooftop tasting featuring upscale small bites from top Black chefs like Kelston Moore, Tony Bennett Jr., and DuVal Warner. Guests will enjoy handcrafted mocktails, goodie bags, a red carpet, and stunning views, plus a chance to connect with the chefs behind the dishes. With just 250 VIP tickets available, this exclusive event is expected to sell out fast. Proceeds benefit Bad Boyz of Culinary and AIM: Achievement in Motion.
3 – 8 p.m. | 333 S Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos
Rhythm & Brunch Juneteenth Celebration
June 19
With great food and smooth R&B, Rhythm & Brunch SD’s Juneteenth celebration is the perfect way to spend your Thursday. From 3 p.m. to 9 p.m, toast to a delicious, boozy brunch with a soulful soundtrack that celebrates culture and community. It’s casual, celebratory, and something you won’t want to miss.
3 – 9 p.m. | 401 G Street San Diego
Louisiana Purchase Juneteenth Block Party
June 19
Louisiana Purchase isn’t just hosting a party, it’s celebrating history, resilience, and freedom with a vibrant block party that puts culture front and center. Enjoy exclusive Juneteenth menu specials featuring New Orleans-inspired bites alongside a selection of Black-owned local vendors. The soundtrack flows with Afrobeats, R&B, and Hip-Hop, creating the perfect backdrop for a night honoring Black excellence through music, food, and community. The celebration kicks off at 12 p.m.
12 – 7 p.m.
2305 University Ave, San Diego
Juneteenth Spoken Word Open Mic!
June 19
Maybe you’re a poet, or maybe you’re just a really good listener. Either way, this celebration night invites you to grab the mic or settle in for something real. You’ll hear raw, poetic, and often hilarious takes on freedom, gratitude, resilience, hope and identity from some of San Diego’s most compelling storytellers. It’s an open space for local voices to share original pieces and reflect on what Juneteenth means right now.
4 – 5 p.m. | Online
Night at the Black Museum
June 19
Spend your Juneteenth evening immersed in history, art, and community at one of San Diego’s most distinctive cultural spaces, the Casa Del Rey Moro African Latin Museum in Old Town. “Night at the Black Museum” is a powerful celebration of Black stories and creativity, featuring private museum tours, live music, food and drinks, cultural reflections, and a special address from Founder Chuck Ambers. It’s an intimate, emotionally rich experience that balances reverence with celebration, raising funds to help preserve and amplify stories that matter.
5 – 8 p.m. | 2471 Congress Street San Diego
Juneteenth BBQ and Summer Kickoff
June 19
This year, La Jolla’s Paddle for Peace is going all out for the 5th Annual Juneteenth Summer Kick-Off BBQ. Think mouthwatering burgers and ribs, volleyball matches, drum circles, group runs, and even surf lessons (a waitlist is available!). This free, family-friendly event is all about celebrating Black joy, culture, and freedom with great company right by the ocean. With local favorites like Lululemon, UC San Diego, Birch Aquarium, Black Tech Link, and Bird Rock Coffee Roasters backing the day, there’s something for everyone.
8 a.m. – 4 p.m. | La Jolla Shores Beach
Black Arts Festival
June 19 – June 22
Art exhibits, dance, entertainment, and more—the Diversionary Theatre is highlighting the beauty and diversity of Black artistic expression. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Black arts or just curious to explore something new, this festival is a rich way to connect with both emerging creatives and established talents. Come curious, but leave inspired. Hosted by the San Diego Black Artists Collective, the celebration goes beyond June 19 with a full weekend of events, so check out their page!
Various times | 4545 Park Boulevard
Juneteenth in Oceanside
June 21
Hosted by the North San Diego County NAACP, this seaside festival is all about community and the power of people showing up for one another. It’s part block party, part history lesson, and all heart, with live performers, health booths, a “Juneteenth Got Talent” showcase, and a vendor market full of art, culture, and flavor. Bring the whole family for Youth Zone fun like games, crafts, and face painting, and swing by the CAL FIRE booth if you’re curious about turning passion into a career.
10 a.m. | Pier View Way, Oceanside
The 619 Day Juneteenth Celebration
June 21
For the past five years, the 619 Day Juneteenth Celebration has been a powerful tribute to Black freedom in San Diego. Created by the community, for the community, this event welcomes attendees to bring canopies, tents, coolers, chairs, and grills to set up in the family-friendly chill zone all at Liberty Station’s NTC Park. It’s also a platform for connection, where local entrepreneurs can share their stories, boost visibility, and engage with the San Diego community in meaningful, lasting ways.
12:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. | 2600 Cushing Rd San Diego
PARTNER CONTENT
Juneteenth Storytime
June 18
For those with little ones, The San Diego Public Library is holding a storytelling event designed just for preschoolers ages 2 to 4. Starting at 10 a.m., librarians will share age-appropriate stories that honor the holiday in a thoughtful, engaging way. It’s a sweet and simple way to listen, learn, and celebrate together.
10 – 10:30 a.m. | 12095 World Trade Drive San Diego
