Chandler, located approximately 13 miles west of Queen Creek, held two days of events in mid-June to observe Juneteenth. The celebrations included a pageant and a concert featuring local performers.
The crowning of the Miss Juneteenth Arizona titles took place on June 12 at the Chandler Center for the Arts. Nadia Ashley was named Miss Juneteenth Arizona 2026, and Elani Summers received the title of Junior Miss Juneteenth Arizona 2026. Six-year-old Essence Hurrell was also crowned Little Miss Juneteenth Ambassador during the ceremony.
Following the pageant, the city organized a cultural music event on June 13 at A.J. Chandler Park. Valley musician Vaughn Willis and his group, Ear Candy, served as the primary performers for the gathering. The event was hosted by the city to provide cultural programming for the holiday.
Details regarding the total number of attendees or specific budget allocations for the events were not provided in the available reports. Further information on future Juneteenth observances in the area is not yet clear.
