Juneteenth Celebration
Jun 20th @ 11:00 am - 2:30 pm
Discovering the meaning of freedom together
Join us on Saturday, June 20, 2026, as we celebrate black history and its cultural significance on this day that commemorates the end of slavery. Discover the sounds of freedom and tastes of resilience by engaging in informative presentations and impactful displays.
Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021 to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. The name “Juneteenth” combines the words “June” and “nineteenth” and marks the day in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that the Civil War had ended and all enslaved individuals were free.
You will discover:
- The historical significance of Juneteenth and its origins in 1865
- Live music and performances celebrating freedom and unity
- Interactive dance experiences promoting wellness and empowerment
- Inspiring voices and perspectives from community leaders and special guests
Schedule:
10:30 a.m. | DJAI B² celebratory background music playing
11:00 a.m. | Welcome and Opening Remarks
- Introduction by Scott Williams, President & CEO of Discovery Park of America
- Opening prayer
- Introduction of Emcee: Kameron Echols
11:15 a.m. | Rhythm Nation Line Dance Group Performance and Lesson
- Named after the Janet Jackson song this group is focused on providing a way to stay healthy, empower women, and reduce stress through dance.
11:45 a.m. | Discovery Park Community Choir Performance
- Uplifting gospel songs celebrating freedom and unity
12:15 p.m. | NPHC Step Groups perform
- Several groups from the University of Tennessee at Martin will showcase exciting step performances.
12:45 p.m. | Introduction of guest and Closing Remarks
- Closing remarks for Juneteenth ceremony by Kameron Echols
- Scott Williams introduces special guest Kenny McCloud
1:00 p.m. | Red Food Tasting
- Enjoy traditional red foods honoring Juneteenth heritage.
2:00 p.m. | Live “Reelfoot Forward: A West Tennessee Podcast” Recording on stage in Dino Hall
- Podcast guest Kenny McCloud interviewed by Scott Williams
We are excited to welcome the Discovery Park Community Choir back this year. Check out this video for a glimpse of the group performing at our 2025 Juneteenth event.
DJAI B²
Kameron Echols
Rhythm Nation
Community Choir
Reelfoot Forward Podcast Guest: Kenny McCloud
Kenny McCloud of Union City, Tennessee, is a musician and producer whose early influences and local mentors shaped a lifelong career in music. He performed with groups including Young Funk, Natural Touch and Onyx before expanding into production.
McCloud later co-founded Blackhole Recording Studio, which became a collaborative space for major hip-hop and R&B artists, including members of Digital Underground, R. Kelly, George Clinton, El DeBarge and Charlie Wilson. His work spans performance and production, contributing to multiple music genres.
Red Food Tasting in the Tennessee Room
Red Food Sponsors:
Community service vendors are welcome to register for this event.
Click the button below to sign up.
The 2026 Juneteenth Celebration is sponsored by Higher Ground Coffee Company and Vantage Coffee Roasters.
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