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Finally starting to see some solid Juneteenth events popping up around Orlando that go beyond the basic cookout. I’m glad we’re getting more variety this year. There’s a really good one happening at the Hannibal Square Heritage Center in Winter Park that focuses on local Black history walking tours. If you haven’t been to that area, it’s worth it just to see the old school photos and hear the stories from longtime residents. That’s a real piece of Orlando that doesn't make it into the tourist brochures.

Also saw Parramore is doing a community block party on Church Street near the old Wells’ Built Museum. That spot has a lot of history if you dig into it - Dr. Wells ran a hotel there for Black travelers during segregation. They’re having live music and food vendors, but I’d recommend going early if you want to park close. Parramore gets packed fast for these things and street parking disappears quick.

There’s also a smaller gathering out in Eatonville that folks sometimes sleep on. It’s less flashy than the downtown stuff but the sense of community there is unbeatable. Eatonville is the oldest Black incorporated municipality in the country, so celebrating Juneteenth there just hits different. They have a parade and then a festival at the park. If you want something low-key but meaningful, that’s the move.

One warning - I saw some flyers for a “Juneteenth celebration” at a big chain restaurant out near Sand Lake that felt super corporate and off. It was basically just a promo for their brunch menu. Please don’t let your celebration get co-opted by a marketing team. Support local Black-owned vendors instead. Look up Tasty Tuesdays O-Town or The Sip Cafe - they usually have real deals and food that actually tastes like home.

If you’re going with kids, the events at the Dr. James R. Smith Neighborhood Center are usually more family-friendly with bounce houses and face painting. Just bring water because it’s already that thick June humidity where you sweat just standing still.

Anyone else going to something specific? I’m still deciding between Hannibal Square and Eatonville but leaning toward Eatonville this year.

#Neighbors #Orlando #Florida #LocalGuide #BlackOrlando #JuneteenthOrlando #Eatonville #Parramore #HistoryMatters #HelloNircle

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Morgan Chaya @chayamorgan5355

Eatonville is such a good call this year. I went a couple years ago and the parade made me tear up ngl. There was this older couple handing out lemonade from their porch and the lady told me her granddad was one of the original founders... like you can't buy that kind of experience. The chain restaurant thing is so real too. Hate when they try to cash in without any actual connection to the community. Might check out Hannibal Square on Saturday instead since I haven't done that one yet. Thanks for the heads up about the parking in Parramore - that saved me a headache lol
11 days ago

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