Crete Sets Juneteenth Celebration
The Crete Area Historical Society will host free Juneteenth festivals this month, the oldest-known holiday to commemorate the end of slavery in the U.S.
The National theme for Juneteenth 2023 “Discovering Our Roots.” Also known as Freedom Day and Emancipation Day, Juneteenth is a federal holiday and is recognized on June 19 each year.
In Crete, “Freedom, Community, Connection” events will take place on Saturday, June 17, from 12 to 4 p.m. at the South Shelter at Crete Park, 515 First St.
Sponsored by the CAHS and Isaac and Valerie Butron, the event will feature performances by the Governors State Dance Company and MTS The Poetic Speaker.
The public is invited to bring blankets or chairs to enjoy the Community Drum Circle led by Spear-It Drummers, food, music and local vendors and artisans.
Proceeds from the raffles will support the renovation and repairs needed to open the Crete Area Historical Society museum to the public.
Located at 550 W. Exchange St., the museum is the site of the First Congregational Church, which is officially recognized as part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.