The Black History Celebrations Executive Committee announced the long awaited famous Black History Parade is Saturday, February 16, 2019. The 21st Annual Black History parade kicks off at 10:00am on James Street.

The parade will start at Duncan Lake and travel down James Street to Friendship (Eastside) Park, 1009 Rebecca Ave. There are several activities to take place at Friendship Park after the parade including a 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament, Kickball games, horse shoes games, horse rides, and even a hint of a possible Battle of the Bands. There will also be plenty of food, music, and other activities to enjoy at the park. The event is free and open to the community.

Tens of thousands of people are expected to overcrowd James Street to watch the long anticipated parade.

This year's theme is 'One Community Standing Together.' The parade is said to feature every aspect of the community and culture, both past and present, from historical figures to organizations, businesses and churches.

Receiving this year's prestigious Peggy Answorth Grand Marshal Award is Forrest County Youth and County Court Judge, the honorable Carol Jones-Russell, the first African American elected to a county wide position in Forrest County and the first woman elected as County and Youth Court Judge.

The honoree, Carol Jones-Russell is the niece of the first African American elected in Forrest County, the honorable Deborah Gambrell, Chancellor of Chancery Court.

The parade is free to participate in. To get in the parade, sign up by going to www.accelevents.com/events/parade2019. If you have any questions, email hattiesburgmg@gmail.com or call 601.861.8500.