MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON — The Hutchinson Youth NAACP is inviting the entire community to celebrate freedom, culture and community during its seventh annual Juneteenth Festival, which begins Thursday evening and continues Friday in downtown Hutchinson.
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned they were free — more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.
"For us, it's the celebration of freedom for all," said Heather Jobe, who helps support the Hutchinson Youth NAACP.
The local celebration has been organized by youth members since 2020, when they partnered with the city's human relations office to launch the event. Since then, the young leaders have continued planning and coordinating the annual festival, handling everything from vendors and activities to entertainment and community outreach.
Maddy Mosely said planning begins months in advance, with youth members meeting regularly to organize the two-day event.
"This is something the youth are responsible for coordinating," Jobe said. "All the things that you would think go into a big city celebration, they're helping make that happen."
Thursday's activities begin at 6 p.m. and include a talent show and community health fair. Talent show registration remains open until 5 p.m. Thursday, allowing last-minute participants to enter. Cash prizes will be awarded in multiple age categories.
The health fair features approximately 14 organizations and service providers, including Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, Horizons Mental Health Center and other community agencies. Attendees can receive health screenings, learn about available resources, and connect with local service organizations.
Jobe said the health fair has had a tangible impact on community members over the years.
"We've had people come out and discover serious health concerns they didn't know they had," she said, recalling one attendee whose blood sugar level tested above 600 and who was later able to receive treatment.
Friday's festivities shift to a free community barbecue from 7 to 9 p.m. The evening will feature free hamburgers and hot dogs, music, games, a bounce house, bubbles and activities for children. One of the most popular attractions each year is the cake walk, according to Mosely.
Organizers emphasize that Juneteenth is a celebration for everyone.
"There is a misconception that Juneteenth is for only a specific piece of our community, and that's not true," Jobe said. "When we say freedom for all, that's what we're celebrating. Everyone is welcome and everyone participates in Juneteenth."
Mosely said one of her favorite parts of the festival is meeting newcomers and helping educate people about the history and significance of Juneteenth.
"A lot of people come who are new in town or don't know much about Juneteenth," she said. "It's really fun to educate people on topics they don't know very well and help them become part of the community."
Beyond the festival, the Hutchinson Youth NAACP focuses on leadership development through programs such as a monthly book club, participation in the local urban farm, community service projects, and educational activities. Youth members gain experience in planning events, public speaking, and working with community partners.
Festival activities begin at 6 p.m. Thursday with the talent show, health fair and vendors. Friday's free community barbecue runs from 7 to 9 p.m. Organizers encourage residents of all backgrounds to attend and celebrate together.