As we come together to commemorate Juneteenth, Power 98.3 and RSI The Refrigeration School is proud to celebrate this significant day of freedom and unity. Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It’s a time to reflect on our history, celebrate progress, and look forward to a future of equality and justice for all.
The History of Juneteenth
Juneteenth, short for “June Nineteenth,” originated in Galveston, Texas, when Union General Gordon Granger announced on June 19, 1865, that all enslaved people in Texas were free, over two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. This day has since become a symbol of African American freedom and achievement, celebrated with cultural festivities, educational events, and community gatherings.
Power 98.3’s Commitment to Juneteenth
At Power 98.3, we believe in the power of community and the importance of celebrating milestones that bring us closer together. This Juneteenth, we are dedicating our platform to highlight the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the African American community. Join us as we honor this historic day with a series of special events, music, and educational content.
Juneteenth Events Highlighted by Power 98.3
Here are some exciting events happening in our community to celebrate Juneteenth:
Juneteenth Block Party
June 14, 2025
7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Centerpoint Plaza
We’re bringing back the block party energy for a second year! The Downtown Tempe Juneteenth Block Party is the perfect combo of good music, good eats and good community. Teri Tobin is back as this year’s emcee and will set the vibe for the night, as well as, give us a great performance and Urban Poet will deliver powerful spoken word. DJ Panic and DJ AKSHEN will keep the energy up with nonstop music so that Furious Styles Crew can bring the heat on the dance floor with some 1 v 1 dance battles. Don’t worry, they will open it up to you all to jump in and show out!
SouthWest Steppaz is putting a fresh spin on line dancing. They blend the soul of R&B, the twang of country, and the rhythm of Black culture to create something entirely their own. With smooth moves, tight beats, and energy that brings people together, this crew knows how to get a crowd moving
What started as a one-night Hip-Hop Barber Battle at last year’s Juneteenth Block Party has grown into something bigger. We took that energy, turned it into the Downtown Tempe Barber Battle, and launched it at 2nd Sundays on Mill—knowing it would all lead back here.
Now the final four are stepping up. Elite on Mill, Todd the Barber, Borrosos Barber Studios and True Blends Barbershop are bringing their A-game to the Semifinals and Finals.
Click here for additional event information.
Be sure to join us to see how it all shakes out!
Juneteenth Evening Festival at Desert Botanical Garden
- Location: Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix
- Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Doors open at 5:30 PM)
- Description: Celebrate Black culture and history with live music, dance performances, interactive activities, and a Roots of Innovation Trail. Enjoy family-friendly fun, a book giveaway, and a special performance by Prime Society at 7:30 PM.
Carver’s Inaugural Juneteenth Festival
- Location: George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, Phoenix
- Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
- Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Description: Enjoy live music, storytelling, arts and crafts, local vendors, exhibits, a DJ, dancing, and more at this vibrant community festival.
- More Info Visit Phoenix
Culture Music in the Park
- Location: Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, Chandler
- Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
- Time: 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Description: Celebrate Juneteenth and Freedom Week with live performances by Vaughn Willis and Ear Candy. Hosted by Ms. Juneteenth 2025–26, the evening includes food vendors and community unity under the stars.
- More Info Visit PhoenixCity of Chandler
Valley of the Sun Juneteenth Celebration
- Location: Eastlake Park, Phoenix
- Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Description: Join the 21st annual celebration featuring live entertainment, educational workshops, children’s activities, arts and crafts, games, prizes, and free health screenings.
- More InfoEventeny+1Visit Phoenix+1
Avondale Juneteenth Celebration
- Location: Avondale Civic Center Amphitheater & City Hall Building
- Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Description: Acknowledge, educate, and celebrate with live music, dance performances, crafts, soul food, fashion, and educational activities.
- More Info Avondale Arizona
Maricopa’s Juneteenth Festival
- Location: Central Arizona College (Maricopa Campus), Maricopa
- Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025
- Time: 2:00 PM
- Description: Celebrate with the community at Maricopa’s annual Juneteenth Festival featuring cultural performances, food, and family-friendly activities.
- More Info Eventbrite
Tucson Juneteenth Festival
- Location: Tucson, AZ (Exact location TBA)
- Date: June 2025 (Date TBA)
- Description: Join Tucson’s Juneteenth celebration with live performances, cultural exhibits, and community gatherings. Details to be announced.
- More Info
Stay connected with us on social media for updates and coverage of Juneteenth events. Share your experiences using the hashtag #JuneteenthWithPower98.
Happy Juneteenth from all of us at Power 98.3!
By celebrating Juneteenth, we recognize the importance of freedom, justice, and community. Join us in making this Juneteenth a memorable and impactful celebration.