A Recap of the Week-Long Festivities Leading Up to This Historic Holiday In Decatur & Morgan County.

Decatur's Juneteenth Celebration was a vibrant and heartfelt commemoration of the historic day in 1865 when 250,000 slaves in Texas learned of their freedom. The celebration, adorned with red, green, and yellow balloons, kicked off on Saturday with a lively parade through downtown Decatur, featuring spectators in Juneteenth shirts cheering enthusiastically. This marked a significant shift from five years ago when few events recognized Juneteenth in Decatur.

The festivities spanned several days, starting with Saturday's parade and celebrations, including a gospel festival. Sunday's events featured the fourth annual Juneteenth Festival hosted by New Way Out, which drew a crowd of 1,500 to 1,800 people with 35 vendors offering food, games, and fireworks.

On Tuesday, the Decatur Public Library hosted a Juneteenth-themed story time led by historian and author Peggy Allen Towns, who educated children on the significance of the holiday and its traditions, such as the consumption of red foods symbolizing strength and sacrifice. Towns also shared insights about the Juneteenth flag, symbolizing unity and the struggles of ancestors.

The celebrations concluded on Wednesday with a festival at Athens State University, featuring a lineup of musical performances and activities. Christopher Burks, the organizer, highlighted the inclusive nature of the event, encouraging people of all ethnicities to come together in celebration.

Juneteenth's growing recognition, bolstered by its designation as a federal holiday in 2021 and a state holiday in Alabama this year, reflected an increasing awareness and appreciation of this important day in American history.