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Juneteenth is a holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the U.S. after the Civil War.

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Juneteenth festivities have begun in the Tennessee Valley, marking what many refer to as “Freedom Day.” This day serves as a reminder of the end of slavery in the United States after the Civil War. 

Below is a list of this year’s Juneteenth celebrations:

Black Restaurant Week  – Huntsville is celebrating its 10th year with a 10-day lineup of events spotlighting local chefs, restaurants, and food vendors. This year’s featured event is the Rocket City Rodeo Southern Soul and R&B Festival, featuring live music, food trucks, and more. 

5th Annual Juneteenth Celebration at The Camp – The Camp will host its 5th Annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 21, with live performances, food trucks, and a market featuring Black-owned businesses from noon to 6 p.m. Organizers say the free, family-friendly event highlights freedom, culture, and community.

Run with Kenyans: Kalenjin Heritage 5K Run  – The annual Gotabgaa International Conference returns to Huntsville on June 22, featuring a 5K run, a 1-mile family fun walk, and a celebration of Kenyan culture.

Morgan County NAACP Parade – The Morgan County NAACP will hold a Juneteenth Parade on Saturday, June 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The parade will travel from downtown Decatur to A.C. Banks Park to celebrate community and freedom.

New Way Out Celebration – A Juneteenth celebration will take place Sunday, June 15, from 3 to 9 p.m. at Wheeler Cashin Pines Park. The event will feature food, live entertainment, family activities and a fireworks show.

NAACP Juneteenth Gala – The NAACP Juneteenth Gala will be held Sunday, June 15, from 6 to 9 p.m. at The Cotton Gin. Guests will enjoy an evening of reflection, speakers and honors recognizing excellence and heritage.

2nd Annual Juneteenth Scholarship Golf Scramble – Golfers will hit the greens at Sunset Landing Golf Course in Huntsville for the 2nd Annual Juneteenth Scholarship Golf Scramble on Thursday, June 19 from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Organizers say the event blends friendly competition with a cause, raising scholarship funds while celebrating Juneteenth. 

Inaugural Limestone County Juneteenth Celebration Invitational Rodeo – Set for Saturday, June 21 at the Limestone County Sheriff’s Rodeo Arena in Athens. Gates open at 6 p.m., with the rodeo starting at 8; tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the gate.

Preserving Diversity in America Juneteenth Festival in Athens – A Juneteenth Multicultural Performing Arts Celebration will be held Saturday, June 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Athens Middle School and Swan Creek Park. The event will feature speakers, dancers, music, food trucks, vendors, a hair expo, and more.

This list will be updated as more events are announced.

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