A parade down 23rd kicked off the second day of the Juneteenth Freedom Festival a bit after noon today. Although it was noticeably smaller than last year, the participants were enthusiastic.

The festival continues at Pratt Park until 8pm tonight and again tomorrow afternoon, with R&B and soul performances, food, and several informational booths.

Here’s some photos from the parade:

Tiana Townsell, Miss Black Washington 2009

Leonard Howz, President of Buffalo Soldiers of Seattle

George Neubill, Geordan Newbill, and Joseph Overall of Buffalo Soldiers of Seattle

Rosalund Jenkins, Executive Director of the Washington State Commission on African American Affairs

DeCharlene Williams, President of the Central Area Chamber of Commerce

An R&B performer at the festival