Several events are being held across North Texas to commemorate the day slaves in Texas learned that they had been freed.

From parades to festivals and even free food, hundreds gather every year to take part in celebrating Juneteenth. But, the holiday surpasses the physical celebrations, and East Texas leaders say it's about celebrating freedom.

In Odessa, the council is hosting its 26th annual Juneteenth celebration. This year’s theme is “Western and Bling,” a nod to both culture and flair and organizers are encouraging attendees to show up in cowboy boots, carry fans and add plenty of sparkle.

The City of Kilgore celebrated Juneteenth with a parade and cookout on Saturday. The Kilgore Legacy Foundation hosted the event and presented scholarships to their 2025 Juneteenth king and queen for essays they wrote on freedom.

In Denver, for example, more than a dozen companies backed out of supporting the Juneteenth Music Festival, which is one of the city’s biggest celebrations of the holiday, according to Norman Harris, executive director of JMF Corporation, which puts on the event.

EAST TEXAS (KLTV/KTRE) - Juneteenth events are planned this week around East Texas. Power Wheel Parade - Woldert Park 701 W. 32nd Juneteenth Association of Tyler will host their 2nd annual kids power wheel parade on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. Gospel Fest - Greater St. Mary Baptist Church.

The Juneteenth flag will fly over some state capitols and city buildings on June 19. Here's what to know about the flag's history and meaning.

Juneteenth is still a recognized federal and state holiday in New Jersey and some states across the country. Even though the Trump administration has pushed to end diversity, equity and inclusion, at numerous federal agencies,