The City of Natchitoches concluded its Juneteenth Celebrations with a concert Saturday, June 18 at the downtown riverbank. The family event was attended by several hundred concertgoers from across the community who enjoyed some superb music from two local bands and GODJ.Chris. The family-friendly event featured two inflatable play areas that were available at no cost for children to play in.
The concert began, as all of the weekend’s activities have, with an explanation of the meaning and history of the Juneteenth holiday, commemorating the day in June, 1865 in which Union general Gordon Granger landed his forces in Galveston, Texas and issued his famous Order Number 3 declaring: “…The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free ….” NSU student Darrin Nixon delivered a short speech on the holiday.
NSU Alumnae Ms. Destiney Roberson performed an absolutely stunning rendition of the National Anthem as well as Lift Every Voice and Sing. Local bands Tanner & Company and On Point Band entertained the crowd as the evening culminated with a fireworks display.
