Juneteenth is the federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of the last remaining slaves in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger and his troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and informed the enslaved people that President Abraham Lincoln had freed them two years earlier.

Southwest Louisiana celebrates Juneteenth with an annual four-day festival. Get ready for delicious cookoffs, outdoor games and activities, a parade, and more!

 

Freedom Festival Itinerary

 

Monday, June 16

The celebration begins at the MLK Center on Monday at 9 AM. Celebrate health, wellness, and the Olympic spirit at the inaugural Fit Family Olympics. Get ready for family-friendly races, activities, and challenges promoting collaboration and team work.

 

Tuesday, June 17

Calling all seniors─ The beloved Senior Bingo returns with tons of prizes, snacks and friendly competition!

 

Wednesday, June 18

The annual Juneteenth Scholarship Brunch presents awards from various businesses and organizations to local high school students pursuing higher education. Movies Under the Stars returns that evening with a Kid Zone and vendor session beginning at 4:30 PM followed by a special showing of Black Panther at sunset.

 

Thursday, June 19

The Juneteenth celebrations continue on Thursday at the Lake Charles Event Center. Get ready for the annual Juneteenth Parade, beginning at 11 AM followed by a concert, outdoor games, vendors, speakers, and a sauce piquant cook-off!

Fun Fact: Sauce, a beloved southern comfort meal, is comprised of various types of meat like chicken, sausage, or duck cooked down in a gravy.
Juneteenth Freedom Festival Jun 17

Juneteenth Freedom Festival

Join us as we celebrate 4 days of freedom, culture, and community at the Juneteenth Freedom Festival 2026! Let’s come together to uplift Black excellence, honor our ancestors, and celebrate how far we've come — while continuing the journey toward justice and unity. ❤️💚💛 Bring your…

Celebrate Diversity at Black-Owned Businesses

 

Dining and Entertainment

Celebrate freedom and honor diversity year-round by supporting Black and minority-owned businesses in Southwest Louisiana. Enjoy delicious Creole recipes, soul food, and desserts from restaurants like Mama Reta's, Biscuits n Jamz, Mrs. Johnnie's Gingerbread House, Ball's Fried Chicken, Famous Foods, Twannie's Terrific Treats, and Leonard's Food Quarters. Enjoy live performances and special events at popular restaurants and bars like The M Bar, Geebeaux's, and Prestige 337.

 

Things to Do

Let Biking Through the Lake take you on a guided tour through downtown Lake Charles complete with karaoke! Secure the perfect ensemble at Mia's Downtown or tap into your artistic side by taking a class at GP's Creative Corner. Browse the traveling exhibits from African American artists year-round at the Black Heritage Gallery located in 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center.

For more festivals and cultural celebrations in Southwest Louisiana view our annual festivals calendar. Check out Top Things to Do This Summer or our event calendar for more ways to play in Louisiana's Playground.