Three groups that have put on events related to Juneteenth are combining efforts for Saturday’s event at Laura Leake Park. Most activities are from eleven to five.
There will be a variety of food, special guest speakers, live entertainment, and a variety of activities.
Centralia Community Development Director Gayla Harting explains the team effort.
“For years the city had done a very small Juneteenth Celebration down in Laura Leake Park with a free cookout. Three or four years ago, Carleka Spann did a rock the block event at Laura Leake Park the week after Juneteenth. Afterward, we all got together and decided to combine and do it all one day to make it grow. Last year when we were going to do that, we had COVID and the municipality was not allowed to use the park but Malaya Downey did one on her own. So this year we reached out to both, and the whole group got together to put on an event with all their help,” said Harting.
Carleka Spann is pleased with the number of people and businesses that have become involved. “We have food vendors, we have small businesses on deck for informational booths, we have small business owners promoting their businesses and selling their products everything from t-shirts to salty caramel. We’re very excited to have a host of small businesses participating. The vendor setup is free. It’s the biggest partnership I think I have seen for Juneteenth and I’m excited about that,” said Spann.
Downey says some special events have been added.
“We are having a car and motorcycle show. Rich McKinney with Intouchable Detailing will be headlining that for us. I’m also excited about Moss Elite having a basketball scrimmage game. I like that this is a platform to highlight different talents and give the people of the community a chance to see what is going on and what Centralia has to offer at its roots,” Downey.
You’re encouraged to bring your lawn chairs.
There will also be a free community vaccination clinic hosted by State Senator Jason Plummer and the Murray Parents Association at the Centralia Youth Center at 1224 East Rexford from ten to two. Anyone 12 years and older is eligible. Insurance and ID are NOT required.
The Centralia Trolley will take people between the Youth Center and Laura Leake Park.
