SIKESTON — Sikeston is gearing up for a vibrant celebration of heritage and history as the community comes together for its annual Juneteenth event—honoring the day freedom was finally realized for all and showcasing the rich culture, music and unity that define this historic occasion.
This year Sikeston’s annual Juneteenth event will be June 19-21.
The gospel explosion is scheduled from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. June 19 at the Miner Convention Center, where the Black Excellence Ball will also be from 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. June 20. The Juneteenth Fest will be from noon to 8 p.m. June 21 at Lincoln Park in Sikeston.
According to Taneshia Simmons, one of the event organizers, Sikeston has been hosting a Juneteenth since 2021 and it’s growing each year.
“Every year we get to provide more for the community,” Simmons said.
According to Simmons, there is no specific theme for the weekend, but the theme for the Black Excellence Ball is “Harlem Nights.”
“Juneteenth is important for Sikeston and the community because it allows us to celebrate the history of how our country evolved,” Simmons said.
According to Simmons, each year she begins planning the event in November followed by monthly meetings.
“My organization, Youth Empowerment 573, hosts the event, but we established a committee that includes various local churches, community members and Lincoln University,” Simmons said.
This year, Simmons said there will be gospel artist Harmony Dobson and Mervin Mayo who will travel to Sikeston to perform at the gospel event on June 19.
“Additionally, saxophonist Greg Grant who is based in Texas will perform at the Black Excellence Ball on June 20,” Simmons said. “Tasha B from St. Louis is scheduled to perform on Saturday, June 21.
She continued: “The black museum from Louisiana will have an educational tent at the Juneteenth Fest on Saturday, June 21.”
According to Simmons, the community has been a big supporter of the event over the years.
“The community has supported the Juneteenth event in many ways,” she said.
Sikeston Department of Public Safety and EMS will be on site to assist during the day of June 21. Many companies and businesses have donated to the event as well, Simmons said.
One new exciting feature to this year’s event is the car show, according to Simmons.
“We were looking to add something new for the adults that love vehicles,” Simmons said. “We have a range of Arkansas, Tennessee and Illinois people coming to showcase their vehicles. We’re so excited about this new addition.”
There is a $25-cost to enter the car show. There will be cash prizes. All cars, trucks and motorcycles are welcome to enter. Contact 573-380-8756 for any questions.
There will also be vendors at the Juneteenth Fest. Vendor fee is $75 and the funds will go directly to the Juneteenth scholarship.
Check out was real simple, can't wait for the tote bag