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RUSTON, La. — A weekend of faith, music, community and celebration is planned as the Ruston Juneteenth Celebration returns June 19-20. The annual event is sponsored by
the City of Ruston, the Real Change in Ruston, Zion Traveler Community Development Corporation, and organizers say this year’s celebration promises two days of outstanding gospel music, family fun and community fellowship.
The festivities will begin on Friday, June 19, at 6 p.m. with the finals of the Juneteenth Gospel Indie Artist Showcase at Zion Traveler Baptist Church, 1201 Martin Luther King Drive in Ruston.
Competing for the championship will be:
- Inza English
- Startavious “Star the Musician” Williams
- E’Jeanae Hibbert
Special guest Taushey Sias, a national recording artist, will also make an appearance during the showcase.
The winner of the competition will receive $1,000 in prize money and earn the opportunity to perform on the main stage during Saturday’s Juneteenth concert.
The celebration continues on Saturday, June 20, with the Ruston Juneteenth Concert at the Thomas Assembly Center on the campus of Louisiana Tech University. Doors will open at 1:30 p.m., with the concert beginning at 3 p.m.
Headlining the event will be Marvin Sapp, one of gospel music’s most celebrated artists and a 24-time Stellar Award winner known for hits such as Never Would Have Made It. Joining him will be acclaimed worship leader VaShawn Mitchell, a multiple Stellar Award and Dove Award recipient whose songs include Nobody Greater and Turning Around for Me.
The concert will also feature performances by the Unity Choir, along with the winner of the Juneteenth Gospel Indie Artist Showcase.
Organizers say attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the Vendors Village, featuring local businesses, food vendors and a variety of surprises throughout the afternoon.
“Juneteenth is a time to celebrate freedom, faith and community,” organizers said. “This weekend is designed to bring people together through music, fellowship and support for local businesses.”
Tickets are $10, and children ages 5 and under are admitted free. Tickets are available online at www.rustonjuneteenth.com and at Zion Traveler Baptist Church.
Community members from across North Louisiana are invited to come out, support local vendors, enjoy great food and experience an unforgettable weekend of gospel music and celebration.
