The Juneteenth Celebration Committee, in partnership with St. Paul United Methodist Church and other local organizations, will usher in a new milestone to Fayette, as the annual Juneteenth Celebration here marks 25 years. The nearly weeklong event will take place from June 18 through June 22.

This year’s theme, “Building Bridges to Freedom: Soaring with Hope and Strength,” is inspired by Isaiah 40:31: “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles.” The theme and scripture speak to the perseverance, faith, and enduring hope of African Americans who continued to believe in freedom, despite it being delayed by more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.

This year also marks the 160th anniversary of Juneteenth—June 19, 1865—when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to inform the last remaining enslaved African Americans of their freedom. That moment continues to be a symbol of delayed justice and the power of resilience, remembrance, and community.

The Fayette celebration spans five days and includes a range of educational, cultural, and family-friendly events for all ages. The community is invited to attend and take part in this meaningful and festive occasion.

Wednesday, June 18 – “The Iron Riders” Presentation and Bicycle Giveaway at St. Paul United Methodist Church

The celebration begins Wednesday evening, 6:30 p.m. with a presentation from the MO State Parks Historic Site Specialist, Kevin Smith, on The Iron Riders, an often-overlooked chapter in African American military history. The Iron Riders were a group of Black Buffalo Soldiers who, in 1897, undertook an extraordinary cross-country bicycle journey from Montana to Missouri as part of a U.S. Army experiment. Their endurance and determination make their story a fitting tribute to Juneteenth’s themes of perseverance and progress.

The event is free and open to the public and will be held at St. Paul United Methodist Church. As a special bonus, two bicycles will be given away to youths ages 6-18 in attendance.

Thursday, June 19 – Juneteenth Banquet at Central Methodist University

On Thursday, to honor the 25th anniversary of the celebration in this community, there will be a Juneteenth Banquet held 6 p.m., at the Inman Center on the fourth floor of Central Methodist University campus. Guests will enjoy a fine dinner, entertainment, a keynote address from Rev. Cheryll Doughty, who introduced the Juneteenth celebration to the community in 2001, and silent auction. All proceeds from the auction will go to support the local Boys and Girls Club, continuing the Juneteenth tradition of giving back to the community. Tickets are $10 per person, and attendees must purchase tickets or RSVP the committee no later than June 13 to attend. Youth age 10 and under are free.

Friday, June 20 – Gospel Fest and Youth Activities

Friday night brings the annual Juneteenth Gospel Fest; a joyful evening of spiritual music and fellowship held on the Howard County Courthouse lawn at 6:30 p.m. In addition to musical performances, the event will feature food vendors and games for youth, making it an uplifting gathering for the entire family.

Saturday, June 21 – Parade, Vendor Booths, Car Show, Youth Activities, Food, and Fireworks

Saturday’s activities will begin with a free continental breakfast served at 7:30 a.m. on the courthouse lawn, followed by the Juneteenth Parade at 9 a.m. around the square. The day continues with an official opening ceremony and a classic car show.

Vendor booths including the Kid’s Market, a publicly-voted poster contest, and various games and activities for youth and adults will take place throughout the day. One highlight is the always-popular live auction, where attendees can bid on items and score great deals. The Gaines Food Court will be there under the big tent. The festive day will conclude with a fireworks display at Paige-Liberty Park starting at 9 p.m.

Sunday, June 22 – Worship and Barbecue Cook-Off

The final day of celebration begins at 10 a.m. on Sunday morning with a community worship service on the courthouse lawn. The service is open to all and will bring people together in a spirit of unity and thanksgiving. Rev. Bridget Mitchell, St. Matthew A.M.E., Boonville, will be the guest speaker.

Following worship, the community is invited to a barbecue cook-off competition. While ribs will be the main event, chicken and a variety of side dishes will also be served.

A Special Year for a Special Celebration

This year’s Juneteenth marks 25 years of celebration in Fayette—a testament to the community’s enduring commitment to honoring its history and heritage. Organizers hope this year’s events will be especially meaningful and encourage all residents and visitors to participate.

“As always, we thank the community for their steadfast support,” said organizer Tim Jackman. “This is more than just a celebration; it’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much we can achieve together.”

All events are open to the public, and everyone is welcome. For more information, visit local listings, Facebook: Fayette MO Juneteenth Celebration or contact the Juneteenth Celebration Committee of Fayette, MO.