Get ready to groove at the 32nd Annual Juneteenth Celebration in Santa Monica, where the city and the Santa Monica Juneteenth Celebration Committee have laid out an afternoon jam-packed with music, food, and community spirit. Slated for June 15 from 2-7 p.m. at Virginia Avenue Park, this year's bash is swinging under the banner "Rising Above Racism: A Legacy of Empowerment & Pride." Yes, that means attendees can expect a Main Stage with some serious headliners. We're talking blues powerhouse Sonny Green, the soulful Sy Smith, and community favorites like gospel outfit Lifeline Quartet and Operation: BUTTERFLY.
Starting the show with a bang, Chazz Ross will bring the beats alive with a pre-show drumming performance that's bound to get hands clapping and feet stomping well before the official kick-off. And let's set the record straight, following in true tradition, founder LaVerne Ross and soloist Miss Aliya will be there too, ready to welcome everyone with the Black National Anthem and lay down the foundation for an unforgettable day. With Sonny Green and Sy Smith on the bill, plus the Patty Wagon truck ready to serve up some killer eats, this is one party with its heart set on celebrating freedom, culture, and great music.
The Community Stage won't be left out, hosting panel discussions and spoken word artists geared for some heartfelt inspiration and intellectual engagement. And of course, let's not overlook the kiddos. A dedicated children's craft area will ensure the young ones are entertained while mom and dad soak up the atmosphere. No cultural bash is complete without a stroll through a vibrant marketplace—over a dozen vendors like Moondance Books and Wanawake Wanawake Hats will showcase their wares. Want a bite? Food from Jon Que's Smokeout and Wing Lord trucks, along with delicious desserts from C&L Catering, will be on tap to silence those hunger pangs.
Originating as America's second Independence Day, Juneteenth has been colorfully celebrated in Santa Monica since 1992, all thanks to LaVerne Ross's initiative that dates back to her family's Texas traditions. The vibe of the event—produced in partnership with the Santa Monica Juneteenth Celebration Committee—echoes a longstanding record of pride and recognition of a pivotal moment in history. As described by the city of Santa Monica, Santa Monica's own Nichelle Monroe and the R&B group Operation: BUTTERFLY is set to hit the stage, making sure the beats resonate with a sense of heritage and joy. For a full scoop on the event, make sure you hit up santamonica.gov – your go-to for all the juicy details.
