By RICK MILLER
Olean Star
OLEAN — This year’s Juneteenth events across Olean begin today (Friday, June 19) and extend through June 27.
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union troops under Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, announcing that all enslaved people were free, two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.
Olean’s own history includes being an important stop on the Underground Railroad, helping Blacks escaping slavery to get to Canada
The celebration started early with the Juneteenth Jamboree Chicken BBQ Fundraiser on June 6, at War Veterans Park. Proceeds went toward the Jamboree.
Tonight (Friday, June 19), a sponsor happy hour will be held at Four Mile Brewing from 5-8 o’clock with food, drinks, and live music, honoring sponsors and the 2026 Scholarship Award winner.
On Saturday, the seventh annual Juneteenth Jamboree, hosted by Create the Culture will be held at 842 Prince St.
This is a full-day celebration of African American art, music, food, and culture. There will be live performances by local artists, food vendors, and activities that honor Black history and heritage. Proceeds support the Juneteenth Scholarship, empowering the next generation of leaders.
Then, on Saturday, June 27, from noon to 4 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church, the African American Center for Cultural Development will host its Juneteenth Celebration.
It will include a history of Juneteenth, performances by the Magic Terry Blues Band, a talk by bluesman Terry Bellamy and food including hot dogs and hamburgers, pulled pork sandwiches and barbecued ribs.
Be sure to bring your lawn chair.
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