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Check out these Juneteenth celebrations in and around the Charlotte area
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — This weekend kicks off Juneteenth celebrations throughout the Charlotte area and across the country.
Where: 1200 block of Thomas Avenue, Charlotte
When: 5-10 p.m. Friday, June 13, 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday
The longest running local celebration of the holiday that marks the end of slavery in the United States is in the Plaza Midwood neighborhood. The Festival of the Carolinas begins with its opening ceremony Friday night. It features a drum circle in front of the House of Africa on Thomas Avenue, where the festival began 28 years ago.
Then there are two full days of festivities. On Saturday, the Freedom & Unity March begins at 11 a.m., and Sunday is highlighted by a church service, also at 11 a.m.
The Entertainment Stage spotlights African drumming, dance, and all genres of music featuring local and regional performers.
Here are other celebrations:
Where: Rotary Pavilion, 107 N. South St., Gastonia
When: 2 p.m. Saturday, June 14
The seventh annual event is officially city-sanctioned this year. On Saturday, there will be a parade, followed by live music, vendors and food. Then on Thursday, the celebration resumes, closing with a fireworks finale.
HELP Carolina partnered with the city, which is providing in-kind event support and full fireworks sponsorship to help make this community tradition possible.
Where: Samuel William Davis Sr. Multipurpose Field, Hickory
When: 5:30-9 p.m. Saturday, June 14
The third annual festival will feature live music by Baby Black Band, kid-friendly activities, dance performances, food trucks, vendors, resources, and more. The event is sponsored by Arts Culture Catawba, Target and Legacy and Sports Development.
Throughout the month of June, Catawba County agencies and organizations will commemorate Juneteenth across the county through a variety of programs and events.
Veterans Park, Kannapolis
Noon to 5 p.m. Thursday, June 19
The community is invited to take advantage of this opportunity to learn, connect, and rejoice in the spirit of community and progress. This celebration provides a day full of music and entertainment, vendors offering unique crafts, inspiring speakers, and mouthwatering delights from local food trucks.
Following the main festivals, the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers have a home game at 6 p.m. as part of the celebration.
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