FOLFAN and California State Parks Celebrate Juneteenth at Historic Black Miners Bar

Family-Friendly Event Celebrates African-American Freedom and Black History and Culture; All are welcome!

Juneteenth U.S.A. at Black Miners Bar Planning Committee, Friends of Lakes Folsom and Natoma (FOLFAN), and California State Parks invites the public to the second annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 17^th at Historic Black Miners Bar, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, 9698 Greenback Lane, in Folsom.

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in all states in the U.S.  This free event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., celebrates African-American freedom, history and culture, and preserves the legacy of California’s Black 49ers who came to the American River seeking freedom and a better life.

“Our goal is to bring all Californians together during Juneteenth at Black Miners Bar in the spirit of national unity,” said Thomas Stratton, co-chair of the Juneteenth event. “To cultivate a shared sense of national Freedom around the contributions of people of African descent to our state and nation. And ultimately, heal the wounds of the past while preserving our history for future generations.”

“The Juneteenth event, while a celebration, is also a reminder of the dark part of our nation’s history and the historic emancipation that gave freedom to enslaved African Americans,” said Jim Cassio, FOLFAN president. “We have made Juneteenth an important part of FOLFAN’s efforts to bring the community together to better understand our history and at the same time enjoy the wonderful natural resources available to us in this special place along the American River.”

Juneteenth at Black Miners Bar is sponsored by FOLFAN and California State Parks, plus a growing list of co-sponsors including California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Intel Corporation, REI and more.

Event features will include:

• Educational exhibits
• Food vendors
• A variety of speakers, including a panel of historians
• Free guided nature hikes by FOLFAN docents and state parks interpretive staff
• Free coloring station for kids 12 and under
• Author’s workshop
• Arts and crafts
• Vendor exhibits
• Music

The state park location provides lakeside beach access, including paddlesport rentals.

While the Juneteenth event is free, vehicles are subject to a $10 day use fee to enter the state park. For more information about state park rules and regulations click here.

About FOLFAN
Friends of Lakes Folsom and Natoma (FOLFAN), is the Cooperating Association for the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. Formed in 2009, FOLFAN’s mission is “enhancing education and recreation opportunities for the public and protecting the wonders and resources of Lakes Folsom and Natoma” (also known as the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area).

About California State Parks
The mission of California States Parks is to provide for the health, inspiration, and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protect its most valued natural and cultural resources, and create opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation.

Interested in donating to help suppport our Juneteenth Celebration at Black Miners Bar?
Tax deductable donations may be made to FOLFAN by using this link.

Interested in being a vendor or exhibitor at our Juneteenth event?
We are waiving fees for this year’s vendors and exhibitors! Sign up here.
The deadline to register as a vendor or exhibitor is June 10.