Austin residents brave real-feel triple-digit heat to celebrate Juneteenth

AUSTIN, Texas (KEYE) — Texans are celebrating the federal holiday Juneteenth this weekend.

Even in this extreme heat, celebrations still went on.

For more than half the time that the Central Texas Juneteenth Parade and Festival was going on Saturday, the real feel was in the triple digits.

But that wasn’t stopping people from celebrating freedom.

Rain or extreme shine, people were out for Juneteenth.

“This year is a different kind of heat!” said Elizabeth Ellison of Austin.

Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in Texas – a pivotal moment in history.

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For some, it’s a day to celebrate and for others it’s a fresh start.

“It’s to celebrate Black freedom and kind of a beginning to a new start for all of Black people and kind of still trying to hold on to that new hope that we have,” said Brian Edwards of Austin.

Folks were braving the blistering heat, because they say people before them suffered so much more to get to this day.

“People marched, fought and stuff like that so, you know, even if it’s enduring a little heat, we’ll do it; we’ll take on the pressure here is Texas,” said Z’erik Speed. “It’s definitely worth celebrating.”

With the scorching sun beaming down, the warmth that was felt celebrating the day beat the Texas heat.

“Just to see different people – a lot of different cultures, as well, participate in it,” said Georgina Ellison. “It’s nice to see other people come and enjoy us. You know, it brings warmth to my heart.”

Juneteenth celebrations are happening all across the country this weekend.

On Monday, the actual Juneteenth, another event called the Juneteenth Rally for Justice will take place at Rosewood Park from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. It will include a free barbeque, live music, games and guest speakers.

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