The annual Juneteenth celebration is June 10-12 this year at Pratt Park at 20th and Yesler. The youth parade starts from Washington Middle School at 10 a.m. Saturday. The event is sponsored by the Central Area Chamber of Commerce. See our coverage of last year’s parade.

Juneteenth is the celebration of June 19, 1865, the day slaves in Galveston, Texas learned they were free. The Chamber puts it this way:

For many African-Americans, it has come to represent the same freedom as the Fourth of July does for all Americans. It serves as an historical milestone reminding Americans of the triumph of the human spirit over the cruelty of slavery. It honors those African American ancestors who survived the inhumane institution of bondage; it demonstrates pride in the marvelous legacy of resistance and perseverance they left us.

On June 19, 1865, upon hearing the news of the north’s victory over the South, slaves in Galveston, Texas rejoiced in their new-found freedom with joyous shouts, dancing, hugs, tears and thanks to Almighty God. The joy of that day continues to be celebrated in communities across the nation as a reminder of the perseverance, strength and determination to survive the atrocity of slavery, and as a commemoration of the liberation of every American slave.

Here’s this year’s schedule of events:

Friday June 10th (Flag Day)

Talent Search open mic

Ice Cream Social @ 4pm sponsored by DICK’S DRIVE-IN

Central Area Pride Program Event

Saturday June 11th

Youth Walk @ 10am, starting at Washington Middle School. Sponsored by Seattle Department of Neighborhoods Small Sparks Program and Lt. John Hayes SPD

Sunday June 12th

Church in the Park

Preaching, Gospel Exposure and Praise Dancing

Poetry Contest

12:00 pm till Dusk all 3 days

Pratt Park – 20th and Yesler, Seattle

FREE TO EVERYONE

Live Music, Auto show, Good Food, Face Painting, Essay Poetry Contests

Come to see our vendors all three days.

Join us as we Walk for Youth and education on Sat.

Flag Day Week.

Juneteenth Celebration.

Sending a Shout Out for the Youth in Education.