East Contra Costa cities set to celebrate Juneteenth

ANTIOCH – As communities around the nation prepare to celebrate Juneteenth on Thursday, some East Contra Costa County cities are also gearing up for vibrant celebrations.

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More than just a federal holiday, Juneteenth honors the end of slavery in 1865, two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation was enacted. In 2021, it officially became the 12th federal holiday after former President Joe Biden signed it into law.

Locally, Antioch is set to host its fourth annual Juneteenth festival from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday at Williamson Ranch Park.

This year’s festival, “Juneteenth: A Freedom Celebration,” will take residents down memory lane with live performances by 1990s R&B singer Shanice Wilson.

The Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter, best known for her Billboard hit single “I Love Your Smile,” invited people to the show.

“You do not want to miss this. Bring your blankets, your folding chairs, and it’s gonna be a good vibe, I hope to see you there,” said Wilson in an Instagram post last week.

There will also be performances by Universal Soul, the official home band for the Golden State Warriors, as well as activities and various food options.

Brentwood will hold its second annual Juneteenth bash starting at 4 p.m. at City Park on Thursday.

There will be a lineup of activities and live performances by hip-hop group Digital Underground, the Edwins Brothers, West African dance performances by Bronze Girl Productions, Monique McCoy, Stepz Dance Fitness, Virtuous Voices, and Split Second Response, the provider of personal protection and safety training courses.

Those attending will also have access to various food trucks, including Cousins Maine Lobster, The Craving Cajun, Lizetta’s Southern Soul Food, and more.

In addition to the festival, there will be a Downtown Brentwood Freedom Walk, where residents can take a stroll and learn facts about African-American history.

A blood drive donation hosted by the American Red Cross will also be held at the Brentwood Community Center.