An annual tradition in Fayette will begin Wednesday to celebrate America’s newest federal holiday.

The Fayette Juneteenth Celebration will kick off the evening of June 19th and continue through Sunday, commemorating the end of slavery in the U.S. after the Civil War. Committee member Tim Jackman says this year’s celebration will start on the holiday itself, in the hopes of educating more community members about the significance of the day.

The celebration will begin at 6:19 p.m. with a presentation in the Saint Joseph Catholic Church Fellowship Hall.

Jackman says Fayette Juneteenth Celebration, now in its 24th year, has continued to expand, with several church and groups helping organize the five-day event.

Fayette’s Juneteenth Celebration will include a play Thursday evening and gospel music Friday. Several activities are planned for next Saturday the 22nd including a parade, food tent, and fireworks show. The celebration will conclude with a community worship service June 23rd at 10 a.m. at the Howard County Courthouse gazebo.