Juneteenth celebrations continue with summit, festival

Macon’s Juneteenth celebrations wrap up this weekend with two signature events.

The tenth annual Real Talk Hip-Hop Summit takes place today in two parts, from 10 a.m.-noon at the Douglass Theatre and from 4-8 p.m. at Macon Charter Academy. The interactive workshop teaches youth “how they can use the elements of hip-hop to prepare themselves for higher education and careers in a global society,” according to a news release.

The Juneteenth Freedom Festival begins at noon Saturday in Tattnall Square Park and will feature many local and regional artists, including a midday community drum workshop with drum master Ojinga Love. Afternoon performers include Terrie Axam’s Total Dance Ensemble, Kali Dance and Mitchell’s School of Music Youth Ensemble from Perry and a theatrical tribute to Juneteenth by Landmindz Inc.

Historical demonstrators the Black Union Soldiers will be on hand; Lonnie Davis of Ocmulgee National Monument will be discussing black military history from the Revolutionary War forward; and Newton Collier will present Tindall Heights history.

Evening entertainment will be provided by Macon’s Divine Divas of Soul and the Middle Ga. Jazz and Blues Allstars Band.

Hosted by the Kwanzaa Cultural Access Center, the 24th annual festival also includes educational entertainment, children’s games, food, vendors, exhibits and more.

This story was originally published June 16, 2016 at 9:00 PM with the headline "Juneteenth celebrations continue with summit, festival."