Mark your calendars—Juneteenth is coming to Lewisburg with two powerful days of reflection, joy, and community spirit on June 19 and 21!
Juneteenth commemorates a pivotal moment in U.S. history. Though President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, it wasn’t until June 19, 1865, that Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas to announce the end of slavery. His words, shared through General Order No. 3, declared:
“The people are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.”
For many African Americans, June 19—now recognized as Juneteenth—marks the true day of emancipation. It’s a time to honor the past, celebrate progress, and gather in the spirit of history, hope, and unity.
“It’s important that we recognize the fact that our people weren’t freed on January First,” says Yvonne Jones, co-chair of the Juneteenth Celebration Planning and Steering committee. “It wasn’t until 1865 that there was no more slavery in this country.”
Jones, a Greenbrier County native and resident, helped launch one of the first Juneteenth celebrations in West Virginia over thirty years ago. Along with her colleague Rebecca Glass, she began the tradition as a way to educate children at Barnett Childcare Center about the holiday. During her time in Huntington, Jones also served as Director of Ebenezer Medical Outreach.
A Night of History: June 19 at the Greenbrier Historical Society
The celebration kicks off Thursday, June 19, from 6 to 8 PM with a powerful evening dedicated to education and reflection. Hosted by the Greenbrier Historical Society in collaboration with the Juneteenth Celebration Planning and Steering Committee, the program features keynote speaker Maurice Cooley, retired Vice President and Dean of Intercultural and Student Affairs at Marshall University.
Following the presentation, guests are invited to explore the “Echoes of Slavery” exhibit, presented by Janice Cooley, a Greenbrier Historical Society board member. The exhibit offers a meaningful opportunity to engage with the stories and history it brings to life. Light refreshments will be served.
“History is trying to be erased,” says Jones. “It’s so important for young people of all ethnic groups to know the history of this country. If we don’t know history, it could repeat itself.”
Festival Day: June 21 at Dorie Miller Park
On Saturday, June 21 from noon to 5 PM, the celebration continues with a festival at Dorie Miller Park—and it’s shaping up to be a lively afternoon!
Expect high-energy entertainment from DJ Lauryn Trill, soulful harmonies by local gospel singers and Resurrecting Praise Community Choir, and an electrifying performance by local rap artist J-Mane, who’s sure to energize the crowd with powerful lyrics and dynamic beats.
Food, Fun, and Community Connection
The festival isn’t just about the music—it’s a full-on community experience. Enjoy a variety of food vendors, crafts, and information booths offering everything from educational resources to wellness tips. Rainelle Medical Center will be on-site offering free medical screenings, while the Marshall University Minority Health Program will be on hand to share valuable health information.
Young athletes can get in on the fun with a 3-on-3 basketball tournament for middle and high school students. Registration starts at 12:30 PM—so bring your team and your game!
While several vendors are already signed up, there’s still time to join. If you’re a food vendor, artisan, or community organization and want to be part of this exciting day, reach out to Yvonne Jones at yljones2@gmail.com for participation details and more info on the celebration.
A Community Invitation
Whether you come for the history, the music, the food, or the sense of community, Lewisburg’s Juneteenth celebration promises something for everyone. It’s a time to reflect, connect, and celebrate progress made—while inspiring the next generation to carry the legacy forward.
Bring your friends, your family, and your joy. This is more than a festival—it’s a tribute to freedom, unity, and the enduring power of community.
