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NewsSarasota MagazineJune 18, 2026Sarasota County

Juneteenth 2024: Community Events in Sarasota and Manatee Counties

This article provides a historical overview of Juneteenth and lists various free and ticketed community celebrations taking place across Sarasota and Manatee counties to commemorate the holiday.

JuneteenthSarasotaManatee CountyCommunity EventsBlack HistoryHolidays
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Why It Matters

Residents can access a schedule of local Juneteenth events, including free tree giveaways for Sarasota city residents and various cultural festivals, workshops, and performances.

Key Facts

  • Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Texas were informed of their freedom.
  • Congress established Juneteenth as a national holiday in 2021.
  • The City of Sarasota is giving away 75 trees (avocado, loquat, mango, red maple, red mulberry) to city residents on June 20 at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way; proof of residency is required.
  • Newtown Alive is hosting a Caribbean Street Fest (June 18) and Juneteenth Freedom Fest (June 19) at 1950 Dr. Martin Luther King Way.
  • The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is hosting an arts gallery and performances on June 19 and 20.
  • The 13th Avenue Dream Center in Bradenton is hosting a community celebration on June 20 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • A family photo preservation workshop is scheduled for June 19 at the Leonard Reid House; registration is required.
  • Georgie’s UTC Restaurant & Bar is hosting a 21+ event on June 19.
  • The Touch Lounge in Bradenton is hosting an event on June 19 with a $20 admission fee.
  • The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution formally abolished slavery in December 1865.

Who's Mentioned

personGordon Granger“U.S. General who read General Orders No. 3 in Galveston.”organizationNewtown Alive“NAACP branch organization focused on preserving Black history in Sarasota.”location13th Avenue Dream Center“Host site for community celebrations in Bradenton.”organizationWestcoast Black Theatre Troupe“Host site for arts gallery and performances.”personAbraham Lincoln“U.S. President who issued the Emancipation Proclamation.”locationCity of Sarasota“Providing 75 free trees to residents.”personWalter Gilbert“Community engagement director for Newtown Alive.”