Southern California Celebrates Juneteenth

News Summary

Southern California is preparing to honor Juneteenth with a series of vibrant events across the region. Key highlights include a cultural celebration in Leimert Park, along with Opal’s Walk for Freedom in Pacoima. Other attractions include live music, ceremonies, and community activities that showcase the contributions and legacy of the Black community. The celebrations emphasize the historical significance of Juneteenth and aim to engage the community in reflecting on freedom and heritage.

Los Angeles – Southern California is gearing up to celebrate Juneteenth, the federal holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, with a diverse array of events planned throughout the region. Numerous activities will take place in various locations, highlighting the cultural contributions of the Black community and honoring their legacy of freedom.

One of the most anticipated events will be held in Leimert Park, which will feature an extensive cultural program. Attendees can look forward to a women’s drum circle, live jazz performances, line dancing, DJ sets, and more, creating a vibrant celebration atmosphere.

Another significant event is the annual “Opal’s Walk for Freedom” taking place in Pacoima. The walk begins at 6 AM with participants setting off at 7 AM from Hillery T. Broadous Elementary School, heading to Pacoima City Hall. This event pays homage to the historic contributions of Opal Lee, known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” who has been instrumental in the movement to recognize Juneteenth as a federal holiday. Her efforts culminated in the signing of the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act by President Biden on June 17, 2021.

Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved individuals in Texas learned of their freedom, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. As a federal holiday, U.S. post offices, federal offices, schools, and banks will be closed in observance of the day.

Planned Celebrations and Events

• Altadena Historical Society Luncheon: Scheduled from Noon to 1:30 PM at Loma Alta Park, this event features a preview of the Altadena oral history project and includes the Ellen Garrison Clark Scholarship Award Ceremony.
• Palmdale’s Juneteenth Celebration: This event runs from 11 AM to 3 PM at Poncitlán Square, featuring live music, a classic car show, food vendors, and activities for families.
• Manhattan Beach Ceremony: Taking place from 10 to 11 AM at Bruce’s Beach Park, this ceremony will include speeches from community leaders, including Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell.
• Natural History Museum Admission: To honor Juneteenth, the museum is offering free entry from 3 to 5 PM.
• Pacific Park Ferris Wheel: The Ferris wheel will be illuminated in colors representing the Juneteenth flag, with lights being turned on at 8:08 PM.
• Irvine’s Pretend City Children’s Museum: The museum will host children’s events starting at 10 AM.

Honoring Local History

In addition to celebrations, a dedicated intersection in Pacoima will be renamed Nancy C. Avery Square. This renaming honors the legacy of the first Black postmaster of a class post office since Reconstruction, further commemorating the rich history of the Black community in the area.

These events across Southern California not only celebrate the significance of Juneteenth but also provide a platform to honor the enduring legacy of freedom and recognize the impactful contributions of the Black community. The variety of activities ensures that there is something for everyone to engage with and reflect on the importance of this historic holiday.

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Additional Resources

• ABC7: Juneteenth Celebrations in Southern California
• LATF: Juneteenth 2025 Celebrations in Los Angeles
• KTLA: How to Celebrate Juneteenth in Los Angeles
• NBC Los Angeles: Juneteenth Events in LA
• LAist: Juneteenth Events in Southern California
• Wikipedia: Juneteenth
• Google Search: Juneteenth Celebrations
• Google Scholar: Juneteenth History
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Juneteenth
• Google News: Juneteenth Celebrations and Events