ORLANDO, Fla. — As Juneteenth gets closer, celebrations are kicking off across Central Florida. 

What You Need To Know

The city of Sanford held their annual Juneteenth Block Party on Saturday. People from all over the area came together for the "freedom festival" to enjoy motivational speakers, vendors and entertainment.

The was the fourth year of the annual event.

"I love the community. I get to see a lot of people I haven't seen in a while, and everybody is so friendly and helpful. I love it," said Yolanda Williams, who attended Saturday's festivities. 

Another celebration was held in Orlando, hosted by Sen. Geraldine Thompson with the Association to Preserve African Society, History and Tradition.

The event was held at Camping World Stadium, featuring a celebration of freedom and unity through music, dance and food. Many local leaders attended and said event like these are important.

"For me. it's telling the stories that aren't often told, or being louder with the stories that are often whispered," Michael Scott, Orange County Commissioner of District 6, said. 

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, became a federal holiday in 2021 and celebrates the day of the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation, thus ending slavery. 

View all the Juneteenth events taking place around the community.