Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865 — more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation — when enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally received the long-overdue news of their freedom.
Fast-forward to today, Juneteenth is both a jubilant celebration of Black culture and a reminder of unimaginable resilience, and the fact that freedom isn’t free, and needs support and awareness to thrive.
Whether you’re looking to groove at a downtown dance party, support local artisans, or reflect on history by the lake, there are plenty of ways to mark the occasion.
Here is your guide to celebrating Freedom Day across Lake and Sumter counties this weekend. It’s also the beginning of summer and Father’s Day. Celebrate Dad with a cruise on the Dora Queen, or gather your gal pals for a girls’ day out in Umatilla. Eustis’ fun Jimmy Buffett-inspired musical is almost outta here, and a look ahead to a movie revival party and Fourth of July-USA250 celebrations.
Juneteenth celebrations in Lake County area
Christian Worship Center Juneteenth Celebration: Celebrate unity in diversity, peace, and independence on Friday, June 19, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Christian Worship Center, a church led by former Leesburg Mayor and CWC Pastor John Christian with wife Constance, at 1414 W. Main St., Leesburg. Attendees of all ages are invited to enjoy a vibrant afternoon filled with live entertainment, a dedicated kids’ area, unique arts and crafts vendors, and a variety of delicious food trucks. Supported by local organizations, including the Leesburg Community Development Corporation, this gathering promises a fun, engaging, and meaningful celebration for the entire community. Details: facebook.com/christianworshipcenters
Central Florida Juneteenth Festival in Eatonville: Located nearby in Orange County, Eatonville holds a massive, multi-day celebration on Hungerford Field featuring live performances, skits, and art exhibits. Details: https://www.townofeatonville.org/home/events/4126
Juneteenth Honoree Banquet in Eustis: The It Takes a Village Foundation will host its annual Juneteenth Honoree Banquet at 7 p.m. Friday, June 19, at the Eustis Community Center, 601 Northshore Drive, Eustis. The semi-formal evening of community fellowship will feature chef-prepared dining, cultural reflections and live entertainment from Aaron Cross on the Xylophone. For information or to purchase tickets ($40), call Alberta Newsome at 352-516-9991.
Groveland Juneteenth Holiday: Celebrate a community-focused celebration in Groveland at Cherry Lake Park, 131 Wilson Lake Parkway, from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday, June 19. The fest features live music and a variety of local food trucks. The event should offer a relaxed, family-friendly gathering where neighbors can come together to honor heritage and freedom against the backdrop of one of the city’s most scenic parks. Details: 352-730-9286.
Leesburg’s FaithFlo Christian Dance Party & Juneteenth Festival: Head to downtown Leesburg from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, June 19, for a vibrant and convivial Juneteenth Celebration. The festivities kick off outdoors along 100 S. Fourth St. with a free Art Makers Market, where you can explore local artisans, enjoy food from local vendors, and participate in live Zumba demonstrations scheduled for 6:15 p.m., 7:15 p.m., and 8:15 p.m. At 7:30, the celebration moves indoors to Artist with a Purpose for the FaithFlo Friday Christian Dance Party. For a $10 admission fee — though the first 25 guests get in free — attendees can enjoy an uplifting evening featuring DJ Swoop spinning Christian dance music, alongside karaoke, artistic performances, and light refreshments until 10:00 p.m. All ages are welcome for “great music, positive vibes, and meaningful connections.” Details: artistwithapurpose@gmail.com
Umatilla Juneteenth Parade & Festival: Celebrate freedom at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 20, 17107 Ball Park Road, Umatilla. The morning celebration of culture and community features a procession of local performers, school bands and organizations. Free admission.
The Mount Dora Juneteenth Festival brings the community together from 3 to 8 p.m. on June 20 at Cauley Lott Park, 1717 Highland St. A city-sponsored event, Mount Dora’s Juneteenth fest is loaded with community spirit, featuring historical reflections, local vendors, and performances celebrating African American culture. Details: mountdora.gov
Clermont 5th Annual Juneteenth Celebration: An annual tradition at Waterfront Park from 4 to 8 p.m., Clermont’s Juneteenth festivities take place along the shores of Lake Minneola, blending art, music, and a variety of food vendors. It is specifically known for its high-quality cultural exhibits and educational components, making it a great stop for those looking to learn more about the holiday’s history while enjoying the lake breeze. Details: facebook.com/JuneteenthClermont
Pop-Up Concert finale in downtown Eustis
On Saturday, June 20, from 5 to 8 p.m., the North Bay Collective will host its final season finale of its Pop-Up Concert in downtown Eustis’s McCulloch Alley, featuring Kissimmee-based guitarist Ray Melo. The evening schedule helps guests beat the heat before the monthly series takes a temporary break during Florida’s hottest months of July and August. Collective member Audra expressed excitement for this summer finale, encouraging the community to gather for their live music fix now while teasing that the group is already planning a major first-anniversary celebration for their return in September. Details: audra@pinesmoke.com.
Treat yourself to a ‘Girls Day Out’ in Umatilla
Taking place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, at the picturesque Barn at Southern Oaks, Whimsy Market’s Girls Day Out offers opportunities to indulge in specialty drinks, enjoy live music and browse 35-plus unique gifts, fashions and handmade goods. A free giveaway provides a chance to win a basket filled with goodies from local businesses. Admission and parking are also free, at 40430 Legrande St., Umatilla. Details: eventeny.com.
Father’s Day BBQ Cruise to embark in Tavares
Celebrate Dad aboard the Dora Queen paddlewheel riverboat on Lake Dora during the Father’s Day BBQ Cruise. Ticket includes a BBQ lunch catered by Steak Shack Bistro (pulled pork, BBQ chicken, and sides), live music by Dale New, and access to both indoor AC seating and an open-air upper deck. Beer specials and bourbon flights available. Takes place June 21; boarding at noon, sailing 12:30-2:30 p.m. Tavares Marina, Tavares. $69.95 adults, $34.95 kids (4-12), free for ages 3 and younger. Reservations required; visit DoraQueen.com or call 352-533-3380.
‘Escape to Margaritaville’ concludes run at State Theatre
Brought to life by a talented ensemble of local actors and the dedicated production team at Bay Street Players, including one of our favorite caterers, Stefanie Hibbert, the show encourages sing-alongs and feeling like you are right on the beach.
No “wasting away” at this fun show. Bay Street Players continues its run of Jimmy Buffett’s “Escape to Margaritaville” at the Historic State Theatre. The comedic and heartwarming musical comedy features some of Buffett’s most-loved classics, including “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” “Margaritaville,” “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere,” “Fins” and “Volcano.”
Performances run through June 21, with evening shows generally held on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., and matinee performances on Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. The event takes place at the Historic State Theatre, 109 N. Bay St., Eustis. Details: 352-357-7777 or reach out via email at info@baystreetplayers.org.
A look ahead
The movie that turned Mount Dora pink
The Mount Dora-based nonprofit 5th Ave Revival will host a Summer Movie Night and fundraiser party featuring the madcap movie comedy “Honky Tonk Freeway,” filmed in Mount Dora, at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 2, at Sunset Park, 230 W. Fourth Ave., Mount Dora. The film is a famously kooky 1981 ensemble comedy directed by John Schlesinger (“Midnight Cowboy” and “Marathon Man”).
“Honky Tonk Freeway” follows the residents of the fictional Florida tourist town of Ticlaw, who go to absurd lengths to force a newly built interstate to include an exit ramp for their town, which relies entirely on a water-skiing elephant named Bubbles. It stars William Devane, Beverly D’Angelo, the late-great Teri Garr, Beau Bridges and a young Daniel Stern.
The Mount Dora event supports the 5th Ave Revival’s ongoing efforts to restore the century-old Princess Theater in historic downtown Mount Dora and transform it into a vibrant community cultural hub for live entertainment and classic films. Community members are encouraged to RSVP online and make tax-deductible donations to the nonprofit organization to help preserve the town’s heritage and bring the cherished local landmark back to life. Details: thaverevival.com
Hooked on History author celebration in Tavares
Fourteen authors will share anecdotes, tell Florida stories of old, sign books and greet readers inside the Lake County Historic Museum from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on June 27 at the Lake County Courthouse, 317 W. Main St., Tavares. Lake County historian Richard Cronin and Robert Redd, author of “100 Things to Do in Daytona Beach Before You Die” are among the literati you’ll see there. Attendees can also enjoy a variety of exhibits and activities for all ages at the free event. Details: 352-343-9890.
‘Purple with a Purpose’ Alzheimer’s awareness 5K
The “Purple for a Purpose” initiative is taking place in Leesburg to serve as a visual statement of unity, compassion and support for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s, dementia and other cognitive debilitating illnesses. The monthlong event culminates with an Alzheimer’s Awareness 5K run/walk and community event from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 27. The race starts at 8 and will be followed by activities in Towne Square, including food trucks, vendors, and a kids’ area. There is no entry fee for the race. Registration for runners/walkers begins at 7:30 am. Details: turnleesburgpurple@gmail.com.
Second Saturday concert series returns to Eustis
The Second Saturday Sounds concert series is a free, family-friendly summer event hosted by the City of Eustis Events & Tourism department. It invites residents and visitors to enjoy live music against the backdrop of a scenic sunset over Lake Eustis. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or picnic blankets to relax on the grass. The Shaelyn Band plays July 11, Dallas Taylor Band, and the Ultimate Santana Tribute Band play on Aug. 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. The events are held at the bandshell in Ferran Park, located at 250 Ferran Park Drive, Eustis. Details: eustis.org
Performances run from June 5 through June 21, with evening shows generally held on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., and matinee performances on Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. The event takes place at the Historic State Theatre, 109 N. Bay St., Eustis. Details: 352-357-7777 or reach out via email at info@baystreetplayers.org
Independence Day & America’s 250th
Lady Lake’s Big Bang: Join the Town of Lady Lake at 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 27, for “The Big Bang” Independence Day celebration at the Guava Street Athletic Complex. The free, family-friendly event features live music by Tabasco, food trucks, arts and crafts, and a Kid Zone with a foam party and bounce houses. Don’t miss the all-ages watermelon eating contests. The evening culminates in a spectacular fireworks display at 9:15 p.m. Details: 352-205-2826 or email AAlicea@ladylake.org.
Eustis starts the holiday weekend on July 3, with its Independence Day Hometown Celebration at Ferran Park. Catch a professional waterski show on Lake Eustis, live music and a massive fireworks display at 9 p.m. The park’s amphitheater provides a great natural vantage point for the performances and the pyrotechnics over the water. Details: events@eustis.org
Mount Dora’s Freedom on the Waterfront also takes place on July 3, at Elizabeth Evans Park. Starting at 5 p.m., this old-fashioned celebration is a hit for those with young children thanks to its dedicated “Kid’s Zone.” Families typically bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the live music and food trucks, staying late for the fireworks display that lights up Lake Dora at dusk. Details: mountdora.com
Wildwood joins the lineup on July 3 with its Happy Birthday America bash at the Wildwood Community Center. From 6 to 10 p.m., guests can enjoy a high-energy performance by the Greg Warren Band and participate in the city’s signature pie-eating contest. The night concludes with a professional firework show, with the added perk of dedicated golf cart parking for residents of nearby communities. Details: parksandrec@wildwood-fl.gov
Mount Dora Independence Day Parade takes over the downtown streets on Independence Day morning. Beginning at 10 a.m., the parade route winds from Donnelly Street and Seventh Avenue down to Charles Avenue. It’s a traditional patriotic tribute featuring local bands, colorful floats, and community groups, providing a great start to the holiday before the afternoon heat sets in. Details: mountdora.com
The Villages hosts its All-American Celebration at Lake Sumter Landing on July 4 from 3 to 10 p.m. This festival is packed with activities, including a classic American-made car show, a cornhole tournament, and a watermelon-eating contest. Live entertainment by The Brothers Jukebox and performances by The Villages Cheerleaders and Twirlers keep the energy high throughout the square all evening long. Details: 352-750-5411.
Leesburg offers an all-day celebration on July 4, featuring the Star-Spangled Spectacular at Venetian Gardens. The festivities kick off in the afternoon with carnival rides and food vendors, followed by a Leesburg Lightning baseball game at 5. The day reaches its peak at 9 p.m. with a choreographed fireworks show over Lake Harris, which is widely considered one of the largest displays in Lake County. Details: 352-728-9786 (ext. 1100).
Check out more USA 250-Fourth of July events at dailycommercial.com
This article originally appeared on Daily Commercial: 12 things to do Juneteenth weekend and a look ahead at more events this summer
Reporting by Julie Garisto, Leesburg Daily Commercial / Daily Commercial
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Julie Garisto, Leesburg Daily Commercial | USA TODAY Network
