How SoCal is celebrating Juneteenth this year
There's plenty to do around SoCal this weekend if you're looking for ways to celebrate the Juneteenth holiday. Sammy Marvin has this roundup of a few of the highlights.
Although Juneteenth has been established as a federal holiday for only five years now, L.A. has been putting on events and embracing the festivities long before. Between celebrations involving a friendly soccer tournament or even a paint and sip, communities continue to come together to acknowledge the historical prominence of June 19.
As we lay out an array of celebrations happening in Orange County and L.A. this weekend, consider how you’ll participate in this vibrant holiday.
Start the festivities early by joining cyclists for a morning ride that ends in Leimert Park for their Juneteenth Celebration Festival. Participants should be over 18 years of age, although it’s encouraged to bring family, friends and even your own bike group (if you have one), according to their website.
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This third annual bike ride is meant to welcome cyclists of all experience levels, with three different planned routes for beginners, intermediate riders and experts.
When: June 19, 8 a.m. - noon
Where: Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza
Cost: Free, but registration is required
If you find yourself in the Buena Park area, stop by at the city’s outdoor celebration that features food trucks, a guest speaker, community booths — and even a twilight swim. This community event is family friendly, with activities planned for the kids as well.
When: June 19, 6 - 9 p.m.
Where: Boisseranc Park
Cost: Free
If you’re looking for more of a laid back vibe and are a fan of Kendrick Lamar’s music, join The Compton Art & History Museum’s paint and sip. Attendees have to be over 21, but parking is free.
Ticket funds will go towards the creation of a new community museum, so if you’re itching to get creative on a Friday night, consider attending this unique Juneteenth event.
When: June 19, 6 - 9 p.m.
Where: Compton
Cost: $24.99, with tickets available online
People who are looking to let loose after a long week can find their way to the Melrose House for an Afrobeats celebration. Soccer fans attending are also encouraged to bring their flags, as the event is described as a “Rep your flag edition” on their website.
“In honor of Juneteenth and the FIFA World Cup season, we're bringing together music lovers from every corner of the world for a night of non-stop vibes, cultural pride and unforgettable energy,” the eventbrite post states.
There’s many more events that L.A. and Orange County residents can participate in on June 19, so be sure to scour your Instagram for flyers and keep note of your local organizations’ plans as you head into the weekend.
When: June 19, 10 p.m. - 2 a.m.
Where: Melrose House
Cost: General admission is about 23 dollars, but if you buy early bird tickets, it’s almost half off
The celebrations don’t just stop there, though. People who want to continue the fun — or even those just getting started — still have plenty of options throughout the weekend.
Live music, food and family activities — these are all things you can look forward to at the city of Santa Ana’s Juneteenth celebration. The event is brought to attendees by the Orange County Heritage Council and is aimed at honoring “freedom, culture and community,” according to the event’s flyer.
When: June 20, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Where: Centennial Regional Park
Cost: Free
This event is hosted by Tolliver, a funk singer, journalist and a part of the 2025 Cultural Trailblazer cohort. Visitors can expect to enjoy performances from several artists, including Eleganthippy & Butterfly, ADAAWE with support from Broadstage, the Gumbo Brothers and Kobie Dozier Quintet. Don’t forget to also try John Que’s Smokeout for a bite to eat.
When: June 20, 1 - 7 p.m.
Where: Virginia Avenue Park
Cost: Free
Roll into the Juneteenth festivities at Pasadena’s annual Roller Jam, where attendees can appreciate a live DJ, arts and crafts and food for purchase as well.
The city of Pasadena Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People is hosting the event, with hopes that people can use this day to reflect and celebrate African American culture and history, while “encouraging continuous self-development and honoring a bright future.”
When: June 20, 3 - 8 p.m.
Where: Pasadena City Hall
Cost: Free roller skate rentals and family-friendly activities
This “one-day cultural soccer experience” brings forth opportunities to eat, play soccer and mingle with others.
“Between matches, world-class DJs from each region command the stage, while a surrounding Culture Village immerses guests in iconic cuisine and art installations from these different communities,” according to their event website.
When: June 20, 4 - 8 p.m.
Where: Skyline Pitch LA
Cost: Free
At this Juneteenth event, visitors can immerse themselves in the festivities by receiving henna, tooth gems, flash tattoos and even massages by a curated array of vendors. Local small Black businesses will also be in attendance, as well as an opportunity for beginner-friendly climbing. An RSVP is recommended by clicking the link in their Instagram bio.
When: June 20, 7 - 10 p.m.
Where: LA Boulders
Cost: $10 day pass, all proceeds go to Black Rocks
Bring a blanket and enjoy a nice picnic on the grass while you listen to live performances at the park’s amphitheater. A variety of food vendors will be available, including Creamy Boys and Nay’s Tacos. Don’t forget to bring something to sit on if you plan on staying awhile.
When: June 21, 2 - 7 p.m.
Where: Polliwog Park
Cost: Free
No matter how you plan to celebrate Juneteenth this year, it’s important to remember the complex history of this celebration. For previous coverage on Juneteenth’s history, visit Aaricka Washington’s story on its importance in L.A.
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