The city of Gainesville will be holding nine events from June 10-19, leading up to Juneteenth.

The city’s “Journey to Juneteenth” started on May 19 and focused on the journey to freedom for African Americans.

The schedule of events from Gainesville’s website includes:

Saturday, June 10

Juneteenth Film Festival at A. Quinn Jones Museum (1013 NW Seventh Ave) from 5:30- 9:30 p.m.

BBQ food truck, lemonade stand, and cake will be available for purchase. Chairs will be provided, or you can bring your own. 

Movie Schedule:

• 5:30–6:45 p.m. – “Soul of America: The Charles Bradley Story”
• 7–8 p.m. – “One More Time
• 8:15–9:15 p.m. “Sarah’s Place: The Sarah McKnight Story”

Sunday, June 11

Smooth Flava Gainesville Juneteenth Dance Party at Bo Diddley Plaza (111 E. University Ave) from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Community line dance party.

Thursday, June 15

Storytime at Depot Park (874 SE Fourth St.) from 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Children and caregivers can listen to an outdoor story time led by library staff.

Juneteenth: Rejoice, Reflect, Remember at Blount Center (530 W. University Ave.) at noon

Join the Santa Fe College Association of Black Faculty and staff for a Juneteenth celebration that includes food trucks, arts and crafts, an educational historical tour, youth activities, vendors, information about SF programs and live entertainment.

A gospel extravaganza begins at 6 p.m. and features a combined choir of Santa Fe College students, faculty and staff, as well as performances by community members.

Friday, June 16

Expressions of Freedom- Juneteenth Breakfast at Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center (837 SE Seventh Ave.)

Breakfast celebration to honor and remember Juneteenth. There will be food, prizes, and music. Tickets are available online.

SYNERGY Magazine Launch at Blunt Center (401 NW Sixth St.) at 6 p.m.

SYNERGY showcases the achievements, successes and contributions of Black Professionals to the North Central Florida community. The SYNERGY Unveil will be an elegant reception held to unveil the 2023 Edition of SYNERGY. Tickets are available online.

Saturday, June 17

Freedom Walk 5K at Depot Park (874 SE Fourth St.) from 7-11 a.m.

The 5k walk begins at Depot Park, extends into the community and ends back at Depot Park. This event is for individuals of all ages and all levels of fitness. There will be music and live performances after the walk.

Freedom Fest 2023 at Bo Diddley Plaza (111 E. University Ave.) from 4-9 p.m.

Freedom Fest is a music & arts festival featuring music performances, vendors, a children’s zone & activities for children and elders.

Monday, June 19

Reaching Back to Move Forward at Alachua County Administration Building (12 SE First St.) and Bo Diddley Plaza (111 E. University Ave.) from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

There will be an unveiling of the Sankofa statue, honoring the late local historian, Dr. Patricia Hilliard-Nunn at the Alachua County Admin Building.

A drum procession, featuring West African drummer Mohamed DaCosta and the Core Drum Ensemble, will lead attendees to Bo Diddley Plaza to listen to local history and history about Juneteenth, a musical performance by 1000s of Voices Florida and a concert by Let’s Ride Brass Band, as well as a motorcycle parade.