Las Vegas Valley Celebrates Juneteenth Weekend Events

News Summary

Las Vegas Valley is set to celebrate Juneteenth with a series of vibrant events to honor the emancipation of enslaved individuals in the U.S. Festivities will include a flag-raising ceremony, live music, and cultural programs, culminating in the annual Juneteenth Festival. Activities aim to unite the community in recognizing the historical significance of freedom and to celebrate African American culture through diverse performances and educational events.

Las Vegas Valley is gearing up for a vibrant weekend of events to celebrate Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved individuals in the United States. Events will take place on June 19, with various activities highlighting the cultural significance of the day.

Juneteenth, observed annually on June 19, marks the arrival of news about the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas in 1865, which occurred two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed it on January 1, 1863. This day has become a symbol of freedom and a time for reflection on African American history, culture, and contributions to society. In 2021, Juneteenth was recognized as a federal holiday by President Joe Biden, further elevating its importance in American culture.

The Las Vegas Valley celebrations will feature a range of events beginning with the Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony on Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Liberty Park in North Las Vegas. This event will include remarks from local officials such as Mayor Pamela Goynes-Brown and Congressman Steven Horsford, along with live musical and dance performances, culminating in a ceremonial flag raising.

Later in the day, from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., AREA15 on South Rancho Drive will host Juneteenth Celebrating Freedom, featuring live music, shopping opportunities with Black-owned vendors, and the Clark County School District’s Book Bus for young readers.

Families can also enjoy a special program at the Windmill Library on Wednesday from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. This event, titled Step Into Jazz: Celebrating Black History Through Music, will focus on the life and legacy of jazz musician Billie Holiday, including paper crafting activities for children.

In the evening, the Juneteenth Open Mic will take place from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at a venue on West Lake Mead Boulevard, hosted by local artist Vogue M. Robinson, allowing community members to showcase their talents and voices.

The celebrations will continue on Thursday with a Juneteenth Pool Party from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Prentiss Walker Memorial Park & Pool, featuring a lively atmosphere with music and food vendors. Later that evening, the Juneteenth Festival will occur at Water Street Plaza in Henderson from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., offering performances by renowned artists like Johnny Lee Chapman III and Sydnee Winters, along with a vendor market.

On Saturday, two noteworthy events will conclude the weekend festivities. From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Juneteenth in the Present: An Art Exhibition at Henderson City Hall will feature art pieces that reflect the themes of Juneteenth and freedom, remaining open to the public until July 20. This will be followed by the 24th Annual Las Vegas Juneteenth Festival, scheduled from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Expo at World Market Center. This festival will include live entertainment, food options, and activities suitable for all ages.

These Juneteenth events aim to unite the Las Vegas community in honoring the historical significance of emancipation while celebrating African American culture through engaging and educational festivities.

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Additional Resources

• Review Journal: Celebrating Juneteenth in the Las Vegas Valley
• WNBA Aces: Las Vegas Aces Set to Participate in Annual Juneteenth Festival
• KTNV: 10 Juneteenth Celebrations to Add to Your Calendar Around Las Vegas
• Wikipedia: Juneteenth
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Juneteenth