HATTIESBURG — The annual Hattiesburg Juneteenth Festival will return to Vernon Dahmer Park this summer with a series of free community events celebrating freedom, culture and unity. 

The Hattiesburg Juneteenth Festival is scheduled for June 19 and 20 from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. The event is designed to bring residents and visitors of all ages together by incorporating music, food, recreation and community engagement. 

The festival will feature live performances from various genres and artists, along with high-intensity sports tournaments. Event organizers are encouraging participants to decorate their vehicles and create floats for the themed parade. 

Family-friendly attractions will include a kids zone with swimming activities, bounce houses, water slides, games, a playground and a portable arcade. Food vendors and arts and crafts booths from across the South will also line the park, offering a variety of meals, clothing, artwork and specialty items. 

Classic cars, motorcycles and custom vehicles will be showcased during the festival’s car and bike show. The celebration will conclude June 19 with a fireworks show scheduled for 8:30 p.m. 

Before the festival, a flag-raising ceremony for the American and Juneteenth flags will be held May 31 from 10 to 11 a.m. to honor ancestors and military members for their contributions and sacrifices. 

For more information, go to Hattiesburg Juneteenth.