Saint Luke AME Church Seal Saint Luke African Methodist Episcopal Church · Opelika, AL
Annual Celebration

June 27, 2026 · Freedom Day Celebration

Lift Every Voice
& Celebrate

Saturday, June 27, 2026  ·  4:00 – 7:00 PM CST

Join us on the historic grounds of St. Luke A.M.E. Church for an afternoon of food, music, local vendors, spoken word, and cultural celebration. The event is FREE — Open to All and open to the public.

Vendor Application Become a Sponsor Entertainment
Date Saturday, June 27, 2026
Time 4:00 – 7:00 PM CST
Location 1308 Auburn Street, Opelika, AL
Admission FREE — Open to All

The History

June 19th, 1865

On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas with news that the Civil War had ended and enslaved people were finally free — more than two months after the war's official end.

"Freedom is never given; it is won."
— A. Philip Randolph

St. Luke A.M.E. Church is an integral part of the history of this community and state, and has recently been added to the Alabama State Register of Historic Sites. Proceeds from this celebration will help fund much-needed repairs to the church.

Saint Luke AME Church, Opelika, Alabama Saint Luke AME · Opelika, AL
1865
Emancipation Proclaimed
Galveston, Texas — June 19
1816
AME Church Founded
Richard Allen, Philadelphia, PA
2021
Federal Holiday
Juneteenth National Independence Day Act

Participate in the Celebration

Applications Now Open

Applications and payment are due on or before Friday, June 19, 2026. Once approved, you will receive payment and setup instructions.

Food & Craft Vendors

Booth Fee: $50.00

Set up your booth on the church grounds. One table and chairs provided. You may bring one additional table and a tent. Setup begins at 3:00 PM CST.

Apply Online Download PDF Application

Can't apply online? Mail to: P.O. Box 4138, Opelika, AL 36803
Contact: Joyce

Entertainers & Performers

Free · By Invitation

Musical performances, spoken word, cultural presentations and more. Submit an application and our entertainment chair will be in touch.

Day-of Logistics

  • Equipment: Electric piano and microphones provided
  • Arrival: 30 minutes before your scheduled performance time
  • Parking: Street parking on Auburn St and surrounding blocks
  • Dress: Comfortably — it will be warm!
Apply as Entertainer Download PDF Application

Questions? Contact: Jerry

Day of Events

Event Schedule

Saturday, June 27 · 4:00–7:00 PM CST · Church Grounds, 1308 Auburn St. In the event of severe weather, the celebration moves indoors.