June 19, 1865 is the day recognized as when Texas slaves were informed of their freedom after the Emancipation Proclamation which was signed a full two years before. The Proclamation was limited in its scope and delayed freedom for many in areas still under Confederate control. From Texas, the news would spread to surrounding states across the South.

This year, the Juneteenth Celebration in Opelousas will kick off with the LaLa Gala on Friday, June 19 at 6 p.m. at the Evangeline Downs Event Center located at 2235 Creswell Lane in Opelousas. The smiling zydeco cowboy, Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie will perform live. Tickets will be $25.

Then on Saturday, June 20, the 42^nd annual Juneteenth Folklife Celebration will take place from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Farmers’ Market Pavilion located at 828 East Landry Street in Opelousas. Hosted by Creole Heritage Inc. and spearheaded by tradition bearer Rebecca Henry, this celebration provides five hours of festivities including folk art demonstrations, cultural dances, African drumming, as well as gospel, Creole, and zydeco music.

During the rest of the year, Rebecca Henry manages the Creole Heritage Folklife Center located on 1113 West Vine Street in Opelousas. The center places emphasis on folklife, folkways, and methods to bring family and communities together. She also does tours where she educates the public on the area’s unique culture through intriguing and colorful exhibits filled with historical artifacts. In the summer, she hosts an enrichment program for local children teaching them art and herbalist traditions so that these important cultural identifiers will not be lost to time. You can call her at 337-945-5064.

For additional information on these events and more including live music, festivals, and cook-offs, head to our Events Page or call 337-948-8004. You can even visit us at the St. Landry Parish Visitor Center at 978 I-49 S. Service Road, Exit 23 from 9 a.m. to 5 p. m. Monday – Saturday.