Juneteenth: The Cookout - Presented by S.S.F Public Library

Step up to the plate and celebrate freedom, culture, community, and history at Juneteenth: The Cookout, hosted at the South San Francisco Public Library | Parks & Recreation Center.

On Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 1:00 PM, join us for a lively Juneteenth celebration honoring the legacy of the Negro Leagues and the lasting impact of Black excellence in America’s favorite pastime. This family-friendly afternoon will bring together live performances, slam poetry, music, hot dogs, baseball-themed crafts, games, and picnic-style fun on the lawn.

Event Details

Juneteenth: The Cookout

Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026

Time: 1:00 PM

Location: Library | Parks & Recreation Center

Room/Area: 1st Floor, Social Hall and Lawn

Address: 901 Civic Campus Way, South San Francisco, CA

Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite baseball jersey and come ready to celebrate Juneteenth in the spirit of joy, remembrance, and community. Whether you are coming for the performances, the history, the crafts, the food, or simply to gather with neighbors and friends, this cookout is a chance to honor the past while celebrating the present.

The afternoon begins with live performances at 1:00 PM, followed by a picnic, crafts, and games on the lawn at 2:00 PM.

Featured Performers and Special Guests

J.R. Rice — Host & Poet

Oakland-raised author, poet, educator, and event host, J.R. Rice will serve as poet and MC for the afternoon. Known for his powerful spoken-word performances and community-centered storytelling, J.R. brings energy, rhythm, and reflection to the stage as he helps guide the celebration.

Angela Drew “She Spits Fire” — Modesto’s Poet Laureate

Known by her powerful alias She Spits Fire, Angela Drew serves as Modesto’s Poet Laureate and brings a commanding voice rooted in truth, resilience, and community. Her poetry honors history, uplifts lived experience, and reminds audiences how spoken word can preserve memory, spark reflection, and speak freedom into the present.

Nathan Nand — Youth Poet-in-Residence, South San Francisco 2026

Representing the next generation of poetic voices, Nathan Nand, South San Francisco’s 2026 Youth Poet-in-Residence, will share original work that reflects youth creativity, leadership, and the importance of storytelling across generations.

BB Brown — Song-Writer, Singer, and Vocalist

Bringing music and soul to the celebration, BB Brown will offer a vocal performance that adds warmth, rhythm, and spirit to the afternoon. Her presence will help make the cookout feel like a true gathering of song, community, and celebration.

Event Highlights

1:00 PM — Live Performances

2:00 PM — Picnic, Crafts, and Games on the Lawn

Come celebrate the legacy of the Negro Leagues, the meaning of Juneteenth, and the joy of gathering together. Bring your family, invite your friends, wear your favorite baseball jersey, and join us for an afternoon of poetry, music, food, crafts, games, and community pride.

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Host or Publisher J.R. Rice