In remembrance of Juneteenth, the following groups and associations held fun-filled festivals and celebrations.
Independence Heights will host its second annual Juneteenth Parade and Festival on June 21.
The parade will begin at Kennedy Elementary, 306 Crosstimbers at 10 a.m. It will proceed southeast on North Main to East 35th and then to Independence Park . The Booker T. Washington band will be featured along with antique cars, dignitaries and students from Kennedy Elementary. A day-long festival including food booths, a hat contest, a track meet and a raffle drawing will follow the parade.
Acres Homes will hold its 11th Annual Juneteenth Zydeco Rhythm & Blues Festival June 21 from 2-8 p.m. at 6130 Wheatley near Tidwell.
Entertainment will include Nooney & the Zydeco Floaters, the rhythm & blues band Something Unique and the Booker T. Washington band nicknamed Baby Ocean of Soul.
There will be a Zydeco dance contest, food booths, vendors and live broadcasts by KRWP-FM Power 97.5 and KBXX-FM 97.9.
The National Emancipation Associations free Juneteenth Freedom Festival will be held June 19th at Miller Theater in Hermann Park. The 13th anniversary festivities begin at 2 p.m. with a program and introduction of Miss Juneteenth and Court plus recognition of senior citizens. Those who attend the program may then have free barbecue at 3:45. The rest of the evening will feature a talent extravaganza at 4:30 p.m. At 8:00 p.m., four bands, a soloist, and a main feature will entertain the crowd. The Theme is May the light of history guide our footsteps.
Acres Home Branch Library will feature Beulah Shepherd as guest speaker on June 19 from 4:15 to 5:30 p.m. Shepherd is a local activist who will speak on the importance of Juneteenth. The African ensemble Zeitor, face painting, and refreshments will also entertain participants. Admission is free. The library is located at 8501 W. Montgomery. Call 832-393-1700 for more information.