The Wylie Parks and Recreation Board on March 9 approved a permit for the Juneteenth of Wylie festival at Old City Park scheduled for Saturday, June 13, 2026.
Damian Johnson, a member of the Juneteenth organization board, told the board the festival runs about 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is "absolutely a free event." He described entertainment that has included live acts, comedians, dancers and a second stage to separate children’s and adult programming, a history tent highlighting African American history and early local Black residents, health-and-wellness offerings such as blood drives and blood-pressure checks, and a vendor area that typically draws "about 70 to 75 vendors." He said sponsors have included Frost Bank and that CWD is expected to partner this year.
Board members asked about vendor sign-up and advertising; Johnson said the event uses email, text and Facebook and that Wileyjuneteenth.org (site being rebuilt) will host vendor information and applications. Scott Hebel moved to approve the permit; Senay Turner seconded and the motion passed unanimously (7 yeses). Johnson invited board members to attend the festival.
The board’s approval clears the way for the organization and city staff to finalize logistics for the downtown event.