Juneteenth
Through its cultural programs the City of Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Department (PBCAD) works to celebrate the convergence of art, culture and history all year long. PBCAD has celebrated Juneteenth and Caribbean Heritage Month’s since June 2020 with a range of virtual and in person events ranging from story time and conversations to concerts and performance.
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and the abolition of slavery. Almost one month before that day, on the 20th of May in 1865, the Emancipation Proclamation was read on the steps of Knott House (Tallahassee, FL) by Union Brig. Gen. Edward McCook, letting the enslaved peoples in Florida know they had been freed—a full two years after the document was issued by President Abraham Lincoln. Both days have since become a day to celebrate African American freedom, culture, and achievements. Celebrating Juneteenth is a celebration of family, freedom, activism, and resilience.
The City of Pompano Beach invites you to celebrate Juneteenth with us by participating in the following events:
Story Time at the Blanche Ely House Museum
June 7, 2025 │11:00 AM │FREE
Blanche Ely House Museum
Bring the whole family for a delightful Story Time session featuring tales celebrating African American and Caribbean heritage. This event is perfect for children and adults alike, fostering a love for storytelling and cultural appreciation.
24th Annual Blues and Sweet Potato Pie Festival
June 14 │11:00 AM - 5:00 PM │ FREE
Apollo Park
Kick off the summer with a free, fun-filled day of live blues music, African dance, poetry, a fashion show, and DJ sets. Enjoy activities for all ages, including face painting, old-fashioned games, food vendors, historical displays, and a living history museum celebrating culture and community.
June 21 │10 AM │FREE
Ali Cultural Center
Step into The Diaspora Market at Ali Cultural Center—a vibrant celebration of African Diaspora culture filled with art, fashion, food, live music, and local talent that invites you to discover, indulge, and connect.
Living Room Concert at the Blanche Ely House Museum
June 26, 2025 │ 7:00 PM │ $10
Blanche Ely House Museum
Performer: Kat Riggins
Enjoy an intimate evening of music at the Blanche Ely House Museum's Living Room Concert featuring the talented Kat Riggins.
