The First Annual Faye Brown Blackwell Juneteenth Festival is Launched
May 07, 2026 03:43PM ● By Kelsey Swire
The Family Legacy Foundation, Inc., in partnership with KZWA 104.9 has organized The Faye Brown Blackwell Juneteenth Festival, scheduled in Lake Charles for Friday June 19, 2026. The Downtown Development Authority unanimously approved the location of the Juneteenth festival to be held along the downtown corridors of Ryan and Broad St (similar to the ChuckFest route). This historic one-day event is designed to engage local businesses, organizations, and the entire community in an unforgettable day of fun for the entire family. Cultural interaction, education, entertainment, and various cuisine will be the order of the day. Live entertainment will include various recording artists, along with R & B, gospel, zydeco and the KZWA air personalities.
The late Faye Brown Blackwell was a trailblazer throughout southwest La. and launched the first Juneteenth festivals in the early 90’s. Her vision was that community, civic, business, and church leaders would continue to work together as one to ensure a better future for all. As an educator, city councilwoman, entrepreneur, and the founder and owner of KZWA, (the first urban radio station in southwest La.) we strive daily to continue her legacy. The Family Legacy Foundation wishes to honor her memory by engaging all of Lake Charles and surrounding areas in a day of cultural diversity and unity.