Celebrating a Decade of Juneteenth in Mississippi County
Join us in commemorating Juneteenth with the Mississippi County Juneteenth Celebration, now marking its 10th year. This year’s theme, “Be Heard…Vote,” emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and community involvement. We have an exciting lineup of events from June 13 to June 21!
Here’s a detailed schedule to ensure you don’t miss any of the festivities:
Thursday, June 13: Kick-Off Activities
Richard B. Harrison Multipurpose Complex, 801 S. Elm St., Blytheville
Sweet Potato Pie Contest
Sign up and drop off your pie entry between 2 and 4 p.m.
Judging begins at 5 p.m.
Oratorical Contest
Time: 6 p.m.
Participants, both children and adults, will deliver speeches or poems related to the theme “Be Heard…Vote.” Winners of the contest will be announced during Saturday’s festivities.
Friday, June 14: Block Party
Blytheville Public Library (200 N. 5th St.) and Blytheville Black Commercial Historic District (501 W Ash St.)
Book Reading at the Library
Time: 3 p.m.
Kids will act as characters from Ellen Levine's Henry’s Freedom Box, with 30 books generously donated by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Snacks will be provided.
Parade
Line Up: 5:30 p.m. at 1905 W. Main St., Blytheville
The festivities continue with a parade at 6 p.m., concluding with the Block Party on Ash Street around 7 p.m.
Block Party on Historic Ash Street in Blytheville
Time: 7 p.m.
Enjoy music from Terry Wright and Bre Wooten, dancing, a DJ and a variety of vendors.
The Arkansas Heritage Commission recently recognized Ash Street as the Blytheville Black Commercial Historic District. During segregation, it was the social and commercial heart of the Black community.
Saturday, June 15: Main Celebration
Harrison Multipurpose Center (corner of Elm and McHaney)
Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Attendees can enjoy free food, browse numerous vendors, visit with the Blytheville Fire Department which will provide water play for children and watch a praise dance performance by the Faith Temple House of Prayer International Praise Dance Team. Kids can also have fun in bounce houses. St. Bernards Medical Center will be hosting a mammogram mobile. Winners of the oratorical contest and the sweet potato pie contest will be announced and awarded their prizes.
Sunday, June 16: Gospel Jubilee
Ritz Civic Center, 306 W. Main St., Blytheville
Time: 3 p.m.
Led by Pastor James Bragg, the Gospel Jubilee will feature special performances by D. Ellis Thomas and The Levites, Pastor Stephen Black and Torian Bell and the Mississippi County Juneteenth Gospel Choir, along with prayer and moments for reflection. There will be a second praise dance performance by the Faith Temple House of Prayer International Praise Dance Team.
Wednesday, June 19: Prayer Circle
Prayer Garden, 600 W Walnut St., Blytheville
Time: Noon
Six local pastors will lead the community in prayer.
Friday, June 21: Blood Drive
Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, 809 E. Main St., Blytheville
Time: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Stop by between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. to give blood for a good cause.
Mark your calendars and join us for this week of celebration, reflection and community unity. We look forward to seeing you there!
