Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park 11th Annual Juneteenth Celebration

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park invites the public to join in a powerful, family-friendly Juneteenth Celebration from June 12–19, 2025,  featuring the headlining performance by R&B sensation Leela James on Saturday, June 14, 2025.

This week-long series of events blends history, culture, music, and community in a joyful celebration of our shared history, hosted on the very grounds of the first self-governed town established by formerly enslaved people in the United States.

Programming includes a full slate of events, such as interactive children’s activities, African drumming, nature exhibits, a cultural sleepover experience, and an all day celebration on Saturday.

“Events like this bring our community—both near and far—together in powerful ways,” said Ahmad Ward, Executive Director of Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park. “They offer an opportunity to reflect on our shared history and celebrate the progress we’ve made. I look forward to joining everyone for the old-school dance contest—it’s a highlight of the weekend!”

The Saturday, June 14 festival in the park (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | $10 admission) will feature:

• Gospel music and choirs hosted by Marti Baker
• A special appearance by Marlena Smalls at the historic Praise House
• Family activities, including a Kids’ Corner, karaoke, and an old-school dance contest
• Food trucks, vendors, community exhibitors, and staged photo opportunities
• Leela James live in concert to close the festival

Headlining Artist, Leela James is known for her powerhouse vocals and chart-topping hits like “Fall For You” and “Complicated”, will bring her undeniable presence under the oaks in Mitchelville.

“We are thrilled to welcome the incredible Leela James to our stage,” says Joyce Wright, Program Director. “Her soulful voice and dynamic performance will be the pinnacle of our weeklong Juneteenth celebration.”

FULL EVENT LINE UP:

Thursday, June 12

Naych and B’uhds: A Celebration of Nature and Birds
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Free with Registration

Hosted by Hilton Head Audubon, this event connects the beauty of nature with the rich history of Mitchelville. Wander under the oaks and alongside the marsh while local conservation groups share their work.

Sleep Under the Stars: The Juneteenth Sleepover Experience
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Optional overnight stay until 6:00 AM)
$20 per person | $10 tent rental available

A soul-stirring overnight experience, this event invites you to connect deeply with the land and legacy of Mitchelville.

Friday, June 13

Children’s Day: Dig Into History
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM |  Free with RSVP

On Friday morning, children are invited to step into the shoes of junior archaeologists during Children’s Day at Mitchelville.

Feel the Beat: The 2025 Juneteenth Drum Circle
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM |  Free with RSVP

Let the rhythm guide your spirit at this energetic, hands-on community celebration. Master drummers lead an unforgettable evening filled with movement, music, and meaning.

Saturday, June 14

The Main Event: 11th Annual Juneteenth Celebration
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |  $10 Admission

Wednesday, June 19

Juneteenth 5k with Palmetto Running Company
8:00  – 10:00 AM | Register Online

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park| 40 Harriet Tubman Way, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

TICKETS & INFO:

exploremitchelville.org