To commemorate 157 years since the abolishment of slavery in the U.S. and the history and accomplishments of African American culture, the Tampa Museum of Art (TMA) will host its first annual “Juneteenth Cultural Celebration.”
On Sunday, June 19, the family-friendly event will feature free museum admission, art-making activities, live music and performances, and food trucks.
In addition to the entertainment and food, CAN Community Health will provide free health screenings onsite throughout the day. Additionally, visitors will have access to free sampling of arts and health programs the TMA provides for families and various special needs groups.
“This celebration is a great example of organizations with a shared commitment to equity working together to support programs like the Juneteenth Cultural Celebration and making educational opportunities accessible to everyone,” said Cathy Grant, vice president and chief diversity equity and inclusion officer at Moffitt Cancer Center and co-chair of the governance committee at the Tampa Museum of Art.
“It’s important for us to extend the opportunity for young people and community members to be able to walk through the doors with their personal experiences, see themselves represented and know that this is a place where they are welcomed, whether they are experiencing the exhibits at the Tampa Museum of Art, or receiving care at the Moffitt Cancer Center.”
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and admission is free.
Other Tampa Bay organizations will also celebrate “Freedom Day,” have a look at some below.
- On Saturday, June 11, Tampa Heights will celebrate its second annual “Cultural Fest: A Juneteenth Celebration.” The event will feature food and artisan vendors, historical accounts, literary events, music, performing and visual arts as well as economic, physical and mental health workshops with experts in such fields. This free and pet-friendly event will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 1005 N Lamar Ave.
- Rock the Bloc will bring a “block-party atmosphere” to the Raymond James Stadium on June 18 with live music, food trucks, a food and toy drive, a job fair, and free health clinic. The “Tampa Bay Juneteenth Festival” will run from 3 p.m.-9 p.m. and tickets range from $10-$30.
- Community radio station WMNF 88.5-FM will celebrate over the bridge with “A Juneteenth Celebration” on June 18. The Palladium Theater will be immersed in music with Soul Caravan starring Theo Valentin, Rita Wilson, Tron Montgomery, and Hiram Hazley. Tickets are $20 if bought in advance and $25 at the door on the day of the event. You will also need proof of a negative COVID-19 test from the prior 72 hours or proof of full vaccination to enter the event.
