Juneteenth, which commemorates the day enslaved people in Galveston, Texas learned of their freedom in 1865, will be recognized nationally on June 19, 2026. Here in Ouachita Parish, the celebration begins even before the official federal holiday with community events, parades, and gatherings honoring Black history and culture.

Juneteenth Faith, Family & Freedom Splash
Join the Northeast Louisiana Delta African-American Heritage Museum for Juneteenth Faith, Family & Freedom Splash on June 6 at 12 p.m. at 1051 Chennault Park Dr. in Monroe. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and relax while enjoying an afternoon of praise, fun and fellowship. This event will have a gospel extravaganza, freedom splash, Jubilee KidZone, talent show, jambalaya cook-off and vendors. The event is free, but certain featured events have a fee for people wanting to participate and show off their talents.

UMOJA Juneteenth 21st Annual Celebration Parade
For more than 20 years, UMOJA has hosted its annual Juneteenth celebratory parade, honoring culture, freedom, unity and lasting memories for future generations. The Juneteenth 21st Annual Celebration Parade will take place on June 20. Lineup begins at 8 a.m. at Wossman High School, featuring marching bands, dance teams, community organizations, decorated floats and more!

UMOJA Juneteenth Picnic
Following immediately after the parade on June 20, UMOJA will have its Juneteenth Picnic for the community to enjoy food, fellowshipping, music and fun for the entire family. The picnic will take place at 1405 Bernstein Park Road in Monroe, featuring bounce houses for the kids, face painting, prizes, family games and a DJ. Free admission for everyone!

Check Discover Monroe-West Monroe’s Event Calendar for even more Juneteenth events happening throughout Ouachita Parish. We’ll continue updating this blog as additional event details and parade route information become available. Know of another Juneteenth event happening in the area? Let us know here!

Author

Kenya Ross

Public Relations & Media Coordinator

Kenya is the Public Relations and Media Coordinator for Discover Monroe-West Monroe, shaping the stories of the Twin Cities’ attractions, local eateries, awards, and experiences at hotels. She writes independently on her LinkedIn on tourism development in Ouachita Parish. She’s also been published in Lola Magazine where she’s written about winter fashion, community, and a local coffee shop. When she’s not writing, she’s grabbing a Black Earl Grey Tea latte to drink, watching old Disney movies, and finding as many Michael Jackson archives as she possibly can!