A Juneteenth Celebration is set for Saturday in Laura Leake Park in Centralia.
Juneteenth Chair Malaya Downey is inviting everyone to come to enjoy a free day in the park.
“We’ll have a vendor market and different family games and activities from 1-4 pm. We will also have a car show and the biggest surprise is the old Schnuck’s giant shopping cart that used to be in the Halloween Parade is making another appearance. We will have cake walks, bingo, and all-around good times. One of the things our committee has decided to do is to honor different people in the community who have gone above and beyond to service to the community. We think that is very important.”
Downey says if the weather cooperates there will be an appearance by hot air balloons.
“Weather depending, we will have some hot air balloons. We will have a special balloon coming called “Training Wheels” piloted by Justin Hoffman and this is a walk-through balloon. So instead of vertical and upright, it’s going to be horizontal and on the ground and give you an opportunity to walk through the envelope of the balloon, a tremendous photo opportunity with amazing colors.”
Downey says the Retro Boogie Band in St. Louis as well as African Dancers and Drummers from Chicago will be in attendance to provide entertainment. She is thanking those in the community for their support to allow the festival to grow. The holiday is designed to promote fellowship, economic and community development and celebrate African-American heritage.
For more information, follow Centralia IL Juneteenth on Facebook and Instagram or email info@centraliajuneteenth.com.
