CITY OF MERIDIAN, MISSISSIPPI WILL PROCEED WITH JUNETEENTH HERITAGE FESTIVAL CELEBRATION AS PLANNED

MERIDIAN, Miss. — The City of Meridian, Mississippi will move forward with its Juneteenth Heritage Festival Celebration as planned Saturday evening on the City Hall Lawn.

City officials have continued to monitor conditions throughout the week and remain excited to welcome residents and visitors for one of Meridian's signature community celebrations.

"The City Hall Lawn is ready, our team is ready, and we fully expect to move forward with the Juneteenth Heritage Festival Celebration as planned," said Community Development Director Terrell Thompson. "We've monitored conditions closely, and based on everything we're seeing today, we look forward to welcoming residents and visitors from across the region to celebrate culture, community, and unity right here in Meridian, Mississippi."

Public Safety Director Greg Morgan said city personnel and resources will be in place throughout the event to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone attending.

"As with any major community event, our public safety teams have been preparing for weeks," Morgan said. "We will have personnel, equipment, and resources in place throughout the event area to support our residents and visitors. Our goal is to provide a safe environment where families can come together and enjoy this celebration. We look forward to welcoming everyone to downtown Meridian for a great weekend."

“This weekend is about coming together as a city to celebrate freedom, heritage, and the progress we continue to make together,” said Mayor Percy Bland. “Juneteenth is an important part of our shared story, and we are extremely honored to welcome families, friends, and visitors to our city for a celebration that reflects our very best.”

The award winning Juneteenth Heritage Festival Celebration is the signature event of a weekend-long observance taking place June 18 through June 21 across the City of Meridian. Activities include the Juneteenth Gospel Celebration, Black Business Expo and Fashion Show, Kid Zone, Pickleball Tournament, the Brian Cole Baseball Classic, and the award-winning Juneteenth Heritage Festival Celebration featuring live entertainment, community activities, and fireworks.

The City of Meridian, Mississippi invites residents and visitors alike to join in celebrating freedom, heritage, and community throughout the weekend.

For more information, contact Cultural Affairs Director Terrence Davis at 601.485.1998