Join us in creating lifelong memories through an engaging and educational day of culture!
As The City of Winter Haven expands its efforts to enhance diversity and inclusion, it is our goal to provide meaningful interactions that improve community relations, encourage collaboration, and bring forth a sense of pride. This observance of the emancipation of slaves in the United States will be focused on education, the arts, supporting local business, and unification.
Utilizing the many nonprofits and local educational institutions within Polk County, the festival will promote and provide an abundance of education and health resources. By strategically infusing the visual and performing arts, this event will enhance each attendees’ understanding of African American Culture. The City’s goal is to provide fun and safe activities, community awards, contests, and games while enjoying influential jazz and r&b musical acts.
Event parking is available at Polk State College:
CLICK HERE TO RSVP ON FACEBOOK!
– Juneteenth Celebration Committee
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, on June 19, the Union soldiers landed at Galveston, Texas, with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. Note that this was two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation – which had become official January 1, 1863. Juneteenth today celebrates African American freedom and achievement while encouraging unity and respect for all cultures.
Scholarship Opportunites
- The Lem Geathers Future Change Maker Scholarship (sponsored by The Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce)
The Future Change Maker Scholarship is awarded to a high school senior and Winter Haven resident based on their creative sharing, explanation, or interpretation of the significant history of the emancipation of African Americans who had been enslaved in the United States.
Award Amount: $1,000 (for one semester) & $100 for the teacher or school administrator of their choice.
Vendors & Sponsors
Winter Haven is home to over 1,500 minority-owned businesses. This celebration will provide vendors of all categories with the opportunity to expand their customer base while pouring into their own community. Limited vendor spots are available.
Vendor submissions are now closed.
Thank you to our event sponsors and supporters!
