Oakland is preparing for large crowds this Friday, June 19, as the city celebrates Juneteenth, the holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. City officials announced temporary street closures from 6 a.m.
to 6 p.m. on June 19, affecting parts of Lakeshore Avenue, Grand Avenue, and MacArthur Boulevard near Lake Merritt.
The closures aim to safely accommodate visitors, ensure emergency vehicle access, and maintain transit routes. A map of road closures is available on the city's website.
Residents on affected streets, emergency vehicles, AC Transit buses, and East Bay Paratransit vehicles will be allowed through. Traffic barriers will be placed around the lake, but pedestrians and bicyclists can still access the area.
Parking meters will be free on Juneteenth, but congestion may make parking difficult. The Lake Park parking lot under I-580, with about 150 spaces, will be open.
The Oakland Police Department's Alcoholic Beverage Action Team and code enforcement staff will be present to address illegal vending. Other Juneteenth events include a daytime party in Old Oakland by For The Culture, performances and a market at OMCA in partnership with the Black Freedom Fund, and Hella Juneteenth at Prescott Market in West Oakland.