Juneteenth is right around the corner.
Although the holiday has been celebrated across the U.S. for years, it only officially became a federal holiday in 2021. It celebrates the end of slavery, with some referring to it as a second Independence Day.
History tells us that on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation. Many states had previously complied with the proclamation, but there were still some regions, such as this area in Texas, where people were still being enslaved. That changed with the soldiers’ arrival, and Juneteenth was born.
For those planning to celebrate, there are several events planned locally in Middle Tennessee. Here are some of the offerings:
Williamson County
McLemore House (446 11th Avenue, Franklin): The African American Heritage Society of Williamson County will host its annual Juneteenth Celebration from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Guests can expect food trucks, vendors, door prizes, live music and historical reenactments.
Davidson County
NMAAM: The National Museum of African American Music will host a community day from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on June 19. This event will explore African American musical traditions from emancipation to present day. It will also feature a special documentary screening and panel discussion from the Metro Nashville Human Relations Commission. RSVP to view the film here.
Fort Negley: Created in 2018, Tennessee’s first and only Juneteenth Fireworks display will start at 9 p.m. on June 19. Guests can expect music, food trucks, live performances and an appearance from Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell. Festivities are free and will run from 5-9:45 p.m.
Meharry Medical Salt Wagon Clinic: The Free Health Clinic at Nashville General Hospital will run from 5:30-9 p.m. on June 19. Walk-ins are welcome but patients with appointments will be seen first. Those interested can make an appointment at (615) 378-7585.
Juneteenth Freedom Walk/Run: The third annual 5K event will take place at Shelby Park. Registration is $64 and closes at 7 a.m. on June 19. The run starts at 7:30 a.m. Those interested can sign up here.
Montgomery County/Clarksville
Juneteenth Festival / Parade : The city of Clarksville will host its fifth annual Juneteenth Festival / Parade from noon-6 p.m. on June 21. This free event at Dixon Park will play host to local artisans, a variety of food trucks, a basketball tournament and a spades tournament. More info can be found here.
Miss Clarksville Juneteenth: The pageant was created to celebrate empowerment, culture and community and is open to ages 13-27. Contestants will compete in three divisions, Miss (18-27), Teen (14-17) and Jr. Miss (10-13) at the APSU Clement Auditorium. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. on June 20 and tickets are on sale for $10.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Here are Juneteenth events happening around Middle Tennessee.