By Kelli Nesbitt, Parks & Recreation Marketing Coordinator
On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers led by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger landed in Galveston with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. It was two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect.
Today, Juneteenth commemorates freedom and is celebrated by bringing families and communities together. It’s a time for reflection, rejoicing, and learning about black history, culture, and achievements.
Juneteenth is also the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. We invite you and your family to celebrate at several free events this month:
Tuesday, June 14
Brazos Valley African American Author’s Corner
1-2:30 p.m., Lincoln Recreation Center
Enjoy a storytime with Alicia Tillotson as she reads her inspired work, “My Hair is So Cool.” The story celebrates African American hair and normalizes the texture, color, and length, and instills confidence. Tillotson is an A&M Consolidated High School graduate.
Wednesday, June 15
Juneteenth Freedom Walk
9 a.m.-noon, Lincoln Recreation Center
The legacy walk takes you around the Lincoln Recreation Center and W.A. Tarrow Park. Afterward, you’re invited to stay for the George Bush Presidential Library and the Museum Education Department’s Freedom’s Legacy Storytelling by award-winning storyteller Toni Simmons. Celebrate Juneteenth through stories, songs, chants, rhythms, and dances.
Thursday, June 16
Freedom Jamboree, Let Freedom Ring!
6:30-8:30 p.m., W.A. Tarrow Pavilion
Celebrate through fellowship, music, line dancing, shopping, and games for the entire family. Local vendors will sell apparel, art, bath and body products, candles, jewelry, food, etc. Free watermelon will be served, and admission is free.
Saturday, June 18
Starlight Music Series
6-10 p.m., Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater
Load up your lawn chairs and coolers for a free Starlight Music Series concert honoring Juneteenth at the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater. The event features Lil’ Nathan & The Zydeco Big Timers with guests Mi’Chel Rose and On Another Note. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the concert starts at 7. Free parking is available at Post Oak Mall, with handicap parking near Colgate Drive.
For more information, visit cstx.gov/lincolncenter or call 979-764-3779.
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