Residents in Sarasota and Manatee counties are getting ready to celebrate Juneteenth, which recognizes the emancipation of previously enslaved people across the United States.

Juneteenth Celebration

Rosalyn Walton Education and Enrichment Service, Inc. is hosting a three-day Juneteenth celebration in Manatee County. Organizers Dr. Sharon Jefferson and JoOni Jones partnered to promote literacy and awareness of the holiday, according to a YouTube video about the upcoming program. Events include a Juneteenth Reading Conference, a Juneteenth Community Festival and an Ecumenical Father’s Day Service.

Come Jazz Out With DJ Sax

Enjoy live music at this Juneteenth event. DJ Sax will perform songs from the early '90s to now from 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday, June 18. The party is sponsored by Seafood Supreme and Townhall Restaurant & Lounge and takes place at 1958 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Sarasota.

Newtown Juneteenth Celebration

Sarasota's Newtown Juneteenth Celebration promises family fun, music, food and fellowship. The free event starts at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 19, and continues until 6 p.m.

Every Bit of Soul

The food stand Every Bit of Soul is sponsoring an event in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park at which participants will be "celebrating freedom” and discussing “history and wonderful foods.” The event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 19, at 2601 Cocoanut Ave., Sarasota.

A Juneteenth Experience

TBP Productions, LLC, is partnering up with Bradenton's Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen for an event honoring “the many ways the African American community has influenced our history and our culture.” The event will feature many musical acts, including The Barker Project, featuring James Varnado, and hip hop artist Jules, as well as guest speakers like Melvin Pettis, a former John Deere executive, and Gregory Sears of the music ensemble Sounds of Blackness.