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Downtown Elgin surged with a sense of unity and a short but spirited parade Saturday morning, as the city’s proud community honored its Black heritage during the 26th annual Juneteenth celebration.
Hosted by the Elgin Juneteenth Organization, this year’s theme, “Putting the unity back in community,” was evident throughout the day, as neighbors lined the streets with fans in hand, cheering and waving at passing floats and dancers.
The parade, though shorter than in previous years, brought smiles and music to Main Street for about 15 minutes. Notably absent was the local fire department, which organizers said was busy responding to calls elsewhere.
“It’s about building something positive together,” said Charles Wilson, who co-emceed the event with DJ Reese Boi. “The parade was a little shorter, but we still had great energy—and a lot of food, music and people.”
The celebration followed a packed weekend of activities, including Friday’s street dance and vendor fair.
“That was the most I’ve seen in years,” Reese Boi said. “Every year, it’s getting better and better, bigger and bigger.”
Organizer s intentionally scheduled the celebration ahead of Bastrop’s own event next weekend to avoid competition and ensure both cities can fully participate.
In addition to the parade and entertainment, the organization awarded three scholarships to local students and encouraged more applicants next year.
“We want to help, but you have to apply,” organizers told the crowd.
Juneteenth, observed June 19, commemorates the day in 1865 when Union troops arrived in Galveston to inform enslaved people in Texas that they were free—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Now a federal holiday, it serves as a moment to honor Black history, resilience and progress.
For the Elgin community, the celebration was not only about remembrance, but also connection.
“That’s what keeps people coming back,” Wilson said.
Photos by Niko Demetriou
