Celebrate all shades of color during the 27th annual Juneteenth Festival at North Mississippi Park, Saturday, June 16. The event, which observes the June 19, 1865 proclamation of the abolition of slavery in Galveston, Texas, celebrates freedom for people of all racial backgrounds.

Festivities at the park, located at 5114 North Mississippi Drive, include a community breakfast at 8 a.m. and beginning at 10 a.m., live music, a wide variety of great food available for purchase, and other family-friendly activities. Musical guests include Ginger Patterson, Kovan Baldwin, Floeme and RL.

Juneteenth is observed locally and nationally as a day of reflection, empowerment and preparation for future challenges. Using historical and culturally specific information, Juneteenth aims to ensure a better future for all individuals, families and communities.

Parking is available on streets adjacent to the park and in nearby neighborhoods. Park and ride locations are also available with shuttles to and from the festival. Festivalgoers are encouraged to be considerate and use trash receptacles on route to and from the event. Visit www.juneteenthminnesota.org for more information about directions and parking.

Twin Cities Juneteenth sponsors include the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, USTA Northern, KFAI, KMOJ, Phyllis Wheatley Community Center, Three Rivers Park District, Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, Insight News, Carto Graphics, U-Care and Glenwood Inglewood.

For more information about the Juneteenth Festival, visit www.juneteenthminnesota.org.