The 159th anniversary of Juneteenth is approaching, and one of our favorite markets is throwing a fitting celebration for the occasion. Saturday Shoppes is hosting the 2nd Annual Juneteenth Freedom Fest on Saturday, June 15 from 4-8 pm in Lot 1 at Tropicana Field, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to enjoy the concert and free event. The annual celebration is sponsored by the City of St. Petersburg and the Foundation for a Healthy St. Pete.
As part of the festivities, the sprawling festival will showcase dozens of local Black-owned businesses, artists, and makers. The celebration is bringing food trucks, a full market of local vendors, dancing and live music to downtown St. Pete. Juneteenth Freedom Fest is free to attend and is a family-friendly event. This year’s rendition is being co-hosted by 101.5 The Vibe, Tampa Bay’s only R&B station.
The festival will welcome some of the area’s best food trucks, featuring great BBQ, seafood and much more. There will be craft soft beverages such as homemade lemonades, as well as beer available to purchase for those 21 and older.
In addition to the food, there will be a sprawling market full of local artists, makers, boutiques and more. Attendance is free and parking in open spots in the parking lot is also free, subject to availability. The festival will also feature line dancing, a teen market, bounce houses, and even a kids area. There will be interactive arts and crafts stations, as well. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair, relax, and enjoy the free entertainment while they eat, drink and browse.
Limited vendor spots remain for the weekend, and those interested in this event or future Saturday Shoppes can learn more here.
Saturday Shoppes provides opportunity for emerging small businesses
Renee Edwards is the brains behind the Saturday Shoppes operation. The goal of the event has always been to create economic development opportunities for emerging businesses through these fast growing monthly markets. Edwards has also founded the Saturday Morning Shoppe Academy to provide business coaching, business etiquette, resources, marketing, and licensure that would allow hobby vendors to grow their business and income.
Using her knowledge and platform, Edwards is able to assist nearly 150 businesses every month by connecting incredible makers and owners to the community they serve.
Upcoming Saturday Shoppes events after this weekend’s include the BBQ & Jazz Festival on July 6, and the R&B and Florida Fruit Festival on August 3.
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