Pre-Juneteenth celebration to be held Friday

The community is invited to enjoy family fun for all at the Oaklawn Park Juneteenth Festival on June 18 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The park dedication begins at 6 p.m., starting with a welcome address by Mount Pleasant Mayor Tracy Craig, followed by prayer lead by Eddie Bratton Jr. Mayor Pro Tem Tim Dale will then give a congratulatory address. An introduction of pioneers of recreation and families will be done by Jerry Dell Walker followed by an introduction of the Master Jam Men’s Softball team and families by Tony Evans. Closing prayer will then be led by Jimmy W. Smith.

There will be free pony rides, miniature train rides, water slides, music, a celebratory program at 6 p.m. and food vendors, including Howard’s Katchem and Kook’em providing seafood, the NAACP serving turkey legs and sausage on a stick, the Greater Bibleway Church with BBQ and baked potatoes, and Unity Church serving hotdogs and hamburgers.

Masks and social distancing are recommended. Oaklawn Park is located at 1103 Searcy Ave., Mount Pleasant, TX 75455.