Juneteenth Festival Invites Santa Monica Community to Celebrate African American Freedom and Achievement
June 4, 2019 9:14 AM
SANTA MONICA, Calif. – The City of Santa Monica will host the 27th annual Juneteenth Celebration on June 15 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The City has been celebrating Juneteenth since 1992 thanks to the leadership of LaVerne Ross. The theme for this year’s Juneteenth is “Unity for a Purpose” honoring African American freedom and achievement, while encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures. This year, past and present veterans will also be honored.
When: Saturday, June 15, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Virginia Avenue Park, 2200 Virginia Ave., Santa Monica, 90404
Who: All are invited to celebrate
What: Juneteenth has become America’s “2nd Independence Day,” a day filled with music, dance, food, and fun. On the main stage Sean Hill will emcee performances by Chazz Ross Drum Circle, Emery Beckles & Soul, reggae by Aaron Nigel Smith presented in collaboration with The Broad Stage, jazz with Phyllis Battle, Bloco Obini Drum Ensemble, J. Boykin and much more. A special invocation will be made by Pastor Jacqulyn Maye of Phillips Chapel of Santa Monica as well as City of Santa Monica Mayor Gleam Davis will present a proclamation in honor of Juneteenth to LaVerne Ross. Crafts, face painting, and games for kids will be found at the Kids’ Korner. A King’s Court celebrating fathers will feature ping pong, chess, and other games. The festival will also include a cultural arts marketplace and food trucks, Rodney’s Ribs and Kona Ice. For the full event schedule, visit the event’s Facebook page here.
Find more information about this free community event online at Santa Monica’s Virginia Avenue Park Facebook page (@vapark) or call 310-458-8688.
Media Contact
Miranda Iglesias
Public Information Coordinator
Miranda.Iglesias@SMGOV.NET