There are moments when a community doesn’t just gather—it shows up.
Freedom Fest 2026 was one of those moments.
On June 13, we welcomed families, neighbors, and partners to celebrate Juneteenth in a way that felt both powerful and personal. From the first notes of live music to the final moments on the dance floor, the day carried an energy that could be felt across the entire space.
This wasn’t just a celebration.
It was a reflection of who we are.
Throughout the day, the grounds were filled with movement, music, and connection. Families explored the KidZone, where laughter and play created space for the next generation to simply be. Friends gathered at tables, shared meals, and reconnected in ways that felt familiar and meaningful.
The Sound of Freedom Fest
Music set the tone from the very beginning.
The Crawlers opened the day with a gritty, high-energy blend of blues, soul, and rock that brought people in and got the crowd moving. Terry Thomas followed with a powerful saxophone performance that carried the spirit of gospel, R&B, and jazz across the grounds.
Vocals by Bruce Williams added a soulful layer to the afternoon, while Paityn Jones brought a fresh, rising voice to the stage—reminding us of the talent growing right here in our city.
As the day continued, Mike J and Deuce with the Fellas delivered a full-band experience rooted in R&B, funk, and feel-good energy. And when DJ DK took over—“Ya Mama’s Favorite DJ”—the celebration reached its peak, closing out the day with a sound that had the entire community moving together.
Food That Felt Like Home
Throughout the day, the smell of good food filled the air.
Attendees gathered around food trucks that brought flavor, comfort, and culture to the celebration. From Halal Mediterranean’s seasoned chicken, gyro wraps, and signature sauces, to Jags BBQ’s mesquite-smoked meats and Tex-Mex-style barbecue tacos, there was something for everyone.
Knightfire delivered crowd-favorite smash burgers, brisket, and loaded fries, while Frio Pops kept things cool with handcrafted pops made from real ingredients.
Food wasn’t just part of the experience—it was part of the connection.
Where Community Came Together
Across the event, every corner offered something different.
Families filled the KidZone, where laughter and play created space for the next generation to simply be. Friends gathered at tables, reconnected, and shared moments that felt both familiar and new.
Local vendors and community organizations showcased their work, reinforcing the importance of supporting and investing in our community.
The Black Founder’s Mixer, presented by AAUL Young Professionals, created space for something just as important—connection with intention. Through networking bingo, giveaways, and shared conversation, the next generation of leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs came together to build relationships that extend beyond the event.
Care at the Center
While the music played and the community gathered, care remained at the center of it all.
In partnership with Austin Public Health, attendees had access to health screenings, immunizations, and family-focused resources. It was a reminder that celebration and well-being go hand in hand—and that taking care of our community is part of the work.
More Than a Celebration
Freedom Fest exists because spaces like this are needed.
Spaces where culture is celebrated out loud.
Where community feels tangible.
Where resources are accessible.
And where people can come as they are and feel connected.
Juneteenth reminds us of freedom delayed—but also of resilience, strength, and progress. Freedom Fest carries that spirit forward, creating a space where history is honored and community is actively built.
As you scroll through the photos in the event gallery, we hope you can feel it again—the joy, the energy, the togetherness.
This is what it looks like when a community gathers with intention.
And this is just the beginning.
