Juneteenth 2025 | Desert Botanical Garden

OPEN DAILY 8 A.M.|7 A.M. FOR MEMBERS WED. & SUN.

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Juneteenth 2025

DATE: June 10
TIME: 6-9 p.m.
PRICE: FREE with Community Day reservation


Join us for a vibrant celebration of Juneteenth at the Garden! A day of reflection, fun and connection, where we honor the enduring legacy of freedom, culture and community. Wander through the scenic trails while engaging in activities that spotlight Black culture, history and creativity.

Juneteenth celebrates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans is a time for remembrance, resilience and joy. On June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, freedom reached Texas, marking the beginning of the end of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth, now a nationally recognized holiday, honors this pivotal moment in history.

See our full program here

Juneteenth Evening Festival | 6-9 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
Come out and embrace the theme Reclaiming the Past, Remembering Black Voices, Reshaping the Future. The evening will be a blend of culture, entertainment and family-friendly fun. Kids can enjoy interactive games and activities, while adults can browse an evening market showcasing the talents of local artists and vendors. Celebrate Black excellence with live music, dance performances, delicious food and much more. It’s an event for all ages to reflect, celebrate and envision a unified future together.

Roots of Innovation Trail
Embark on an interactive journey through the Garden by collecting stamps at designated stations. Complete your passport to receive a special gift (available while supplies last).
Book Giveaway
Stop by the Friends of the Library station to receive a free book. This station is perfect for all ages and interests.
Live Entertainment
Be sure to catch Prime Society live on stage at 7:30 PM for a high-energy performance.
Food & Refreshments 
Refuel with delicious bites and cool treats from:
  • Melnlibby’s – Soul Food
  • Lasgida Café – Nigerian-American Food
  • Maui Wowi – Coffees and Smoothies
George Washington Carver Experience
Celebrate the legacy of George Washington Carver, a pioneering botanist whose groundbreaking work with plants and vegetables continues to inspire innovation today. Discover how Carver’s vision for agriculture and sustainability connects to our local community here in Arizona.
  • Visit the Propagation Station to learn about regenerative growing practices. Take home something you can plant and grow.
  • Experience live food demos that highlight ingredients grown in Arizona and inspired by the work of George Washington Carver. Learn simple, flavorful recipes that celebrate African-American culinary traditions and sustainable food practices.
 OneMillion Entrepreneurs Marketplace
Explore a vibrant indoor marketplace featuring local Black-owned businesses offering unique products, services, and handmade goods.
Crowning Glory – Cultural Crafting Experience
Design your own symbolic crown inspired by African royalty or craft a traditional “church hat” honoring legacy, dignity, and the rich tradition of church culture.
Scent & Oil Making with Clairelle Fragrances
Create your own plant-based oil blends using botanicals with African origins in this relaxing, sensory experience.
Kids’ Corner
A joyful, educational space where children can enjoy games, activities, and a celebration of freedom and unity.
Don’t miss a special story-time with Marlee from Marlee’s Lemonade, as she shares her inspiring tale as a young entrepreneur (KidPreneur)!
Hands-On Activity Stations
Unleash your creativity with nature-inspired art and DIY fun:
  • Leaf Printing
  • Pitch Paint Medallions
  • Plant-Based Dyeing Activity – Use natural dyes from plants to create colorful, eco-friendly artwork

A special thanks to our partners AARP and OneMillion Entrepreneurs for their contributions to this celebration.

 

Generously supported by:

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Become a member and get unlimited access all year!

BECOME A MEMBER
ADVANCE TICKET RESERVATIONS ARE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED FOR MEMBERS AND GENERAL PUBLIC
The Garden is closed June 30 - July 6 for construction. Access to the Garden will be restricted, including bus routes. We will reopen July 7 at 7 a.m.