Juneteenth Celebration & Opal Lee’s Walk for Freedom

Join the community for a meaningful Juneteenth Celebration and Opal Lee’s Walk for Freedom at Reinhart Volunteer Park in Grants Pass. Hosted by the local Black Affinity Group, this community event invites residents and visitors to come together to celebrate freedom, honor culture, and reflect on the history and significance of Juneteenth.

This year’s celebration is especially historic as Grants Pass joins a national movement honoring Opal Lee, known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” in celebration of her 100th year. Grants Pass is one of only ten cities nationwide selected to host an official Opal Lee’s Walk for Freedom, alongside major cities including Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Fort Worth, Honolulu, Birmingham, Cincinnati, Evanston, Detroit, and St. Paul.

The event will include a 2.5-mile Walk for Freedom, symbolizing the 2.5 years it took for the last enslaved people in Texas to learn of their freedom. Guests can also enjoy performances, food trucks, face painting, bounce houses, merchant vendors, and community celebration throughout the day. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs, gather with friends and neighbors, and take part in this joyful and reflective community event.

Event Schedule

Details

8:30 a.m.

Registration and vendors open

9:00 a.m.

Opening ceremony

9:30 a.m.

Opal Lee’s Walk for Freedom

11:00 a.m.

Juneteenth celebration begins