Juneteenth is a Federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Deriving its name from combining June and nineteenth, it is celebrated on the anniversary of the order, issued by Major General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865, proclaiming freedom for slaves in Texas. the holiday is also called Juneteenth National Independence Day; Jubilee Day; Emancipation Day (TX); Freedom Day; Black Independence Day.
Monday, June 19, 2023, will be a day-long celebration at Riverfront Bandshell in Clinton, IA.
The MLK, Jr. Celebration Committee and its sponsors will kick off the celebration at 11:00 a.m. Sponsors are Clinton First Responders: Police, County Sheriff, and Fire Departments; Eastern Iowa Community Colleges; Clinton YWCA; Clinton Parks and Recreation Department; Clinton Lumberkings/Elotes; The Sisters of St. Francis; Nelson Corp, Inc.; Clinton Public Library; Iowa American Water Company; Ray’s Time Out; ImpactLife; Iowa Army National Guard.
There will be Food Trucks and Concessions throughout the day. For those who wish to donate blood, an ImpactLife (formerly Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center) Blood Mobile will be on site, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
This year’s festival will be child-focused from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with many activities for all ages. These include Twinky the balloon artist; Touch-a-Truck; K-9 Unit; Pedal Tractors; individual Crafts; Activities from non-profit vendors. The Water Mister will also be available. New this year will be two Bouncy Houses.
The second half of the Celebration starts at 4:00, with a short program, including a proclamation from Mayor Scott Maddasion, followed with a response from Wanda Wyatt.
From 5:00 until 8:00., Funktastic 5 will play their unique brand of Jazz, Blues, and Rock and Roll in the Riverfront Bandshell. The Beer Tent (sponsored by the Clinton Lumberkings) will be open from 4:00 to 8:00.
Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to enjoy the evening festivities.
For information or questions, contact mmommsen@eicc.edu.