About

Inspiring a community through unity

“I want people to be aware of what Juneteenth is all about. It means freedom, and I don’t mean freedom for Black people, & freedom for people in Texas, but freedom for everybody.”

“Juneteenth is a time for reflection”…”a day of music and praise,” and “a jamboree of feasting and fellowship.”

- Dr. Opal Lee, the Grandmother of Juneteenth

Recognizing & Honoring The History of Juneteenth

"If this part of our history could be told in such a way that those chains of the past, those shackles that physically bound us together against our wills could, in the telling, become spiritual links that willingly bind us together now and into the future, then that painful Middle Passage could become, ironically, a positive connecting line to all of us whether living inside or outside the continent of Africa."

- Tom Feelings (1995) The Middle Passage

Our Story

What began as a passionate community vision has grown into one of the largest Juneteenth celebrations in the region. Under the leadership of Linda McGee, Juneteenth in Daytona Beach has expanded from a small local gathering into a multi-day cultural experience that brings the community together in meaningful ways. The annual Free Family Festival now reaches thousands of families each year, offering live entertainment, educational exhibits, food vendors, youth activities, and cultural programming that celebrates freedom and heritage.

In addition to the festival, the Hometown Heroes Banquet—presented by Juneteenth Daytona Beach—has honored hundreds of local heroes who have made a lasting impact across the community. The celebration has also featured appearances from respected local celebrities, leaders, and influencers, helping elevate awareness and pride in the Juneteenth tradition. Today, the event continues to grow, serving as a powerful symbol of unity, recognition, and community empowerment for generations to come.

Community Celebrations

Juneteenth plays a vital role in strengthening community pride and economic opportunity in Daytona Beach. Each year, the festival hosted by Juneteenth Daytona Beach welcomes an estimated 5,000 attendees to the park, creating meaningful exposure and revenue for local vendors, small businesses, and food entrepreneurs. Local artists showcase their creativity through vendor booths, while talented performers and entertainers from the community take the stage to highlight the richness of local culture. The event is powered by dedicated volunteers from local colleges, civic groups, and community organizations, reflecting a shared commitment to service, unity, and cultural education.

The annual Hometown Heroes Banquet further demonstrates the celebration’s impact, having honored more than 500 individuals whose contributions have shaped the community—from civic leaders and educators to celebrities, business owners, and devoted family leaders. The elegant evening features world-renowned entertainment alongside local talent and a buffet-style cultural dining experience that brings guests together in celebration and recognition. Together, the festival and banquet serve as powerful reminders of the importance of honoring heritage while uplifting the people who continue to move the community forward.

Join The Celebration!

We’d love to have you join us as we honor history and community this Juneteenth. Whether you’re heading to Cypress Park for our Free Family Festival—don't forget, parking is conveniently located behind the Charles and Julia Cherry Center—or you're ready to show off your baking skills at our Pound Cake Contest, there is something for everyone. We are also proud to host our Hometown Heroes Banquet on the beautiful campus of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University inside the Mori Hosseini Student Union.

Have questions about the events, registration, or how to get involved? Reach out to us directly:

Phone: 386-589-3347

Email: daytonajuneteenth@gmail.com