Juneteenth 2023: Food, Live Music, Festivals & More in Tucson

There are a few ways to celebrate the holiday in Tucson, which marks when the last enslaved Black people in the United States learned they were free on June 19, 1865. The holiday became an official government holiday in 2021 and cities all around have been hosting pop-up celebrations.

This year, there’s going to be a day-long festival a couple of days before the holiday, artsy hangouts with cocktails, food trucks, a cookout, and a Juneteenth Jam at Hotel Congress.

Tucson Juneteenth Festival at Kino Sports Complex

Saturday, June 17

2500 E. Ajo Way

Presented by the African American Museum of Southern Arizona, this event will be taking place at the Kino Sports Complex from 1 – 9 p.m. Admission is free and there’s going to be historical presentations and exhibits, music and dance, arts and crafts, a car show, and food vendors.

For more information, head over to tucsonjune19.org.

Juneteenth Jam at Hotel Congress

Saturday, June 17

311 E. Congress St.

Beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 17, Blax Friday and the Hotel Congress present Juneteenth Jam, featuring Prime Society, Dj Impeccable, Natho Lotus, and an after-party DJ set by Fat Tony. It’s for all ages before 10 p.m. and 21 and over after that. Tickets are $10 per person (presale) and $15 at the door.

“Attendees can celebrate freedom and community throughout the night with live music.”

Save your ticket and show it at the Juneteenth Market on Sunday, June 18 at 2 p.m. at The Carriage House to be entered into a raffle for a free hotel night at the Downtown Clifton.

For more information, visit dice.fm.

Juneteenth Market at The Carriage House

Sunday, June 18

125 S. Arizona Ave.

As mentioned just a few lines ago, save your ticket and show it at the Juneteenth Market on Sunday, June 18 at 2 p.m. at The Carriage House to be entered into a raffle for a free hotel night at the Downtown Clifton. The event will take place until 6 p.m. at 125 S. Arizona Ave.

More than 15 Black-owned businesses will be set up and offering their crafts, services, and more.

For more information, follow Blax Friday on Instagram.

‘Cocktails, Mocktails & Art’ at Fullylove’s

Monday, June 19

994 E. University Blvd.

The restaurant on Main Gate Square is hosting its “Cocktails, Mocktails & Art” class at 7 p.m. on Monday, June 19. Aside from the art, they’ll be serving the comfort food many have grown fond of on University Boulevard. Read our recent article “Fullylove’s Come for the Food, Stay for the Vibes.”

For more information, follow Fullylove’s on Instagram.