The City of Santa Barbara Celebrates Juneteenth
The City of Santa Barbara proudly sponsors the upcoming Juneteenth celebration, honoring Black Independence Day. Juneteenth Santa Barbara is a collaborative effort to showcase Black culture, talent, and joy within the community. Featuring a free community block party held in the historically Black neighborhood of Santa Barbara, now known as the Funk Zone. The Santa Barbara Public Library on the Go van will be there with books, family crafts, and more.
The event invites the community to enjoy various activities, including live local music, dancing, poetry, spoken word performances, artist exhibitions, storytelling, and a diverse food selection. In addition to the festive activities, the Black Artisan Market will highlight Black-led community organizations and their work through individual booths.
Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. The name combines "June" and "nineteenth," marking the day in 1865 when freedom reached for the last enslaved individuals in Texas, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This day is also known as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day.
For those interested in learning more about the significance and history of Juneteenth, please click here.
Juneteenth Block Party
Saturday, June 15, 2024
11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
100 Gray Avenue
Weekend Celebrations kick off with a Comedy Show for the Class of 2024. Get ready to laugh your socks off for a hilarious comedy show that will have you rolling in your seats. This event is the perfect way to celebrate your summer and honor Juneteenth in style.
Juneteenth...Ain't No Joke!
Friday, June 14, 2024
6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
423 State St)
Year-round, Juneteenth Santa Barbara plays a significant role in uplifting Black/African American-led and serving organizations, coordinating Black History Month events, and facilitating monthly Santa Barbara County Black Leaders Meetings.
Non-emergency City Offices will be closed on June 19, 2024, in observance of Juneteenth.