What you need to know
Juneteenth is an annual observance commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. In 2021, June 19th became a federal holiday. Several events take place each year on June 19th and during the week of Juneteenth. The Filmteenth International Film Festival screens in Pasadena, and T-Pain and special guests host a special Juneteenth concert at the Hollywood Bowl.
A number of inspiring gatherings, concerts, exhibitions and events are held each year to commemorate Juneteenth, the annual anniversary marking the end of slavery in the United States.
June 19th marks the day in 1865 when slaves in Galveston, Texas, learned they were freed after the end of the Civil War and two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.
A number of moving commemorative events are held each year in Southern California on or around Juneteenth.
Some of the gatherings on June 19, 2024 will be free, as they always have been. Shows at Ovation Hollywood are free to attend. But other events, like the FILMteenth film festival in Pasadena and the anniversary concert at the Hollywood Bowl featuring T-Pain, require tickets. Be sure to buy your tickets before heading to this landmark venue.
Here are some events happening around Southern California on June 19, 2024.
19th Annual International Film Festival: The Landmark Pasadena Playhouse Theatre is the home of the festival, a celebration of American excellence and Black, Indigenous and People of Color in film, history, arts, entrepreneurship and STEM. The 2024 selection, including “Cool and the Strong,” can be found on this page.
American Cinematheque Screenings: Film advocacy group pays heartfelt tribute to Juneteenth through classic film starring Sidney Poitier. Tickets are on sale now for “Buck and Preacher,” a 1972 drama screening at the Los Feliz Theatre.
Juneteenth Celebration at Hollywood Bowl: This famous outdoor amphitheater has a vibrant tradition of celebrating Juneteenth through a profound array of inspiring songs and stories. In 2024, the Bowl will feature an “Orchestral Celebration of Black Music” featuring acclaimed artist T-Pain and special guests, conducted by Derrick Hodge.
Juneteenth Celebration at Ovation Hollywood: Just down the hill from the Bowl, a free daytime concert featuring RAISE Gospel Choir and Alexander James will take place in the hours leading up to June 19. Music begins at 12:30 noon and ends at 3:30.
FREE JUNETEENTH SCREENING: The Art Theatre of Long Beach is partnering with CSLUB’s School of Cinematic Arts to present a free screening of Ava DuVernay’s “Origins” on June 19. Reserve your free tickets in advance.
Aquarium of the Pacific: Enjoy music at the Long Beach aquarium on June 19 at 1 p.m. Admission is charged, but there are some great perks: the fun-filled event will include storytelling and will be streamed live on YouTube.
Juneteenth at Pretend City Children’s Museum: This imaginative Irvine destination has two Juneteenth events on its calendar for June 19. “Let’s all dance together to the Cha-Cha Slide, celebrate our freedom, and express our gratitude and love for one another,” reads the inspiring line. Learn more now.
Juneteenth Commemoration Luncheon: Join us for a screening of “Ellen Garrison: Scenes from an Activist’s Life,” presented by the Altadena Historical Society, at the William D. Davis Memorial in Farnsworth Park on June 19. Tickets are $25.
Juneteenth Ceremony: This Manhattan Beach event at Bruce Beach Park will “celebrate African-American history with speakers from the community, special guests and a gospel choir.” If you can’t make it on June 19, there will be a concert at Polliwog Park on June 22.