Despite the South Texas heat, thousands of people gathered at Comanche Park No. 2 to celebrate Juneteenth, honoring the day enslaved people in Texas finally learned they were free.

The Official Juneteenth Festival brought together families, friends, community organizations and vendors for a celebration filled with live music, food, scholarships and cultural pride.

Many attendees said the holiday carries deep meaning and serves as an opportunity to reflect on history while celebrating together.