Montgomery County and the City of Conroe are set to host a series of events commemorating Juneteenth, the federal holiday marking the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. Juneteenth, observed annually on June 19, recognizes the day in 1865 when Union Army General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce federal orders proclaiming the freedom of all enslaved people in the state, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
The local celebrations begin Saturday, June 15, with Conroe’s Golden Heirs hosting their annual Juneteenth Celebration and Scholarship Program. This ticketed event will take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Lone Star Convention Center, located at 9055 Airport Road in Conroe. The evening will include a dinner and a program featuring Dr. Bobby Wilson, Chair of the History Department at Prairie View A&M University. Scholarships will also be awarded to local students. Tickets are $50 per person or $500 for a table, and can be purchased online at conroesgoldenheirs.org.
On the official Juneteenth holiday, Wednesday, June 19, the City of Conroe will host a free Juneteenth Block Party. The event is scheduled from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Heritage Place Park, 500 Metcalf Street in Conroe. Attendees can enjoy live music from Jalea and New Breed, The Hustlers, and DJ D. Wreck. The block party will also feature food trucks, local vendors, and a dedicated kids' zone.
The Montgomery County Black Caucus will conclude the series of local observances with their Juneteenth Festival on Saturday, June 22. Also held at Heritage Place Park, 500 Metcalf Street in Conroe, this free festival will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event promises live music, a variety of vendors, food options, and bounce houses for children.
