This weekend marks one year since Juneteenth was officially announced as a federal holiday. Because of this holiday, there are several of you that have a three day weekend! But, do you really actually understand WHY you have a three day weekend?
Do you understand what Juneteenth actually is all about? What’s the big significance anyway?
You see, Juneteenth is a recognition of the abolition of slavery. As a matter of fact, June 19, 1865 is the day in which slaves in the state of Texas were told they were FREE.
FREE – Let those words sink in.
Freedom came before then – in 1863 actually. The first Watch Night services took place on January 1, 1863 when enslaved and free African Americans gathered in homes and churches waiting for the news that the Emancipation Proclamation had taken effect. At the stroke of midnight, prayers were answered as all enslaved people in Confederate States were declared legally free.
But here’s the clincher – not everyone in Confederate territory was set immediately free. Even though the Emancipation Proclamation was made effective in 1863, it could not be implemented in places still under Confederate control. Because of that, freedom never came to enslaved people in the state of Texas until June 19, 1865 which is when they were free by executive decree. This day came to be known as “Juneteenth,” by the newly freed people in Texas.
So, take a moment this weekend to take part in one of the many Juneteenth celebrations happening right here in Greenville, or even other areas throughout South Carolina and other states.
In Greenville this weekend:
Today, Friday, you can take part in Juneteenth at Unity Park which begins at 4 p.m. It’s at the Prisma Health Welcome Center at Unity Park and is FREE! Listen to poetry readings, view art + enjoy jazz music from local performers and artists.
Tomorrow, Saturday, there are 2 events to keep you busy!
Juneteenth GVL Mega Fest which is from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. at Falls Park. This is also Free! Enjoy a full day of art, live music, food + games at this inaugural event.
Juneteenth GVL Mega Fest 5k & Yoga with Vets is also tomorrow, Saturday from 7-10 a.m. and is taking place in Falls Park. You can still get tickets to take place in this event, and they are $22 each. Run or walk in the race + participate in a restorative yoga practice in remembrance of veterans and Black soldiers who fought during the Civil War.
Then on Sunday, head to the Peace Center for the 2022 Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration taking place from 2-7 p.m. Free entry! Join the Peace Center for its third annual celebration with live music from local artists, local food vendors, children’s activities + a Blood Drive.
I hope you have the chance this weekend to take part in one or all of these events!
Thinking of buying a home in Greenville or our surrounding areas? I’d love to chat with you! We’ll find your dream home – together! Sellers – don’t forget to contact me in regards to selling your home too! My email is thevictoriacottlegroup@gmail.com, and my direct phone is (864) 275-3953.
About Victoria
People are on the move and I am ready to help you buy or sell in the Greenville area. Please contact Victoria Cottle by email thevictoriacottlegroup@gmail.com or call (864) 275-3953 for your real estate needs in the Upstate of South Carolina! You can also always follow me on Facebook!
Victoria Cottle is a Realtor® in the Greenville South Carolina area and if you, a friend, or a family member need assistance with selling or buying a home I can help. Referrals and people needing relocation assistance are welcome! Search Single Family homes in Greenville. Search Condos and Townhomes in Greenville.