Juneteenth Festival

Bessemer City’s annual Juneteenth festival with live music and community celebration.

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What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth commemorates the day freedom finally reached thousands of enslaved people in Galveston, Texas in 1865. Although President Abraham Lincoln had already declared slavery illegal, it was not until June 19th that the news reached Texas. Today Juneteenth is celebrated annually on June 19th and serves as a reminder of freedom, resilience and progress. All are welcome.

Past years

2026

8th Annual Juneteenth Festival, Friday, June 12, 2026.

6:15 PM Opening: Welcome and Proclamation (Mayor Becky S. Smith)
6:20 PM Negro National Anthem / Lift Every Voice
6:45 PM Drummers 4 Lyfe (interactive)
7:45 PM DYEP: Lion of Judah Drum Line & 3D Dance Team
8:15 PM Entertainment: Aaleah Wiley of Gastonia, NC