The City of Port Wentworth is slated to host its fourth annual Juneteenth Celebration on Friday, June 19, 2026. The event will be held from 5:30-9 p.m. behind City Hall, located at 7224 GA-21 in Port Wentworth. This celebratory event is free and open to the public and will feature a fun-filled evening for the whole family.

With a meaningful blend of education and entertainment, emceed by Pat Gunn, the evening will include food trucks, vendors, historical storytelling, a children’s area, and performances by Kwanzaa 365, Kimberly Gunn, Dadd’s Production’s corporate band with Tamekha, and The Mary Davis Experience.

During the event, the City of Port Wentworth will present the 2026 Frances Bright Johnson Humanitarian Award to Senator Derek Mallow. This award honors Frances Bright Johnson, mother of Councilman Rufus Bright, who dedicated her life to justice, equity and service to others. Johnson was recognized as a force in the local Civil Rights movement and an active community leader, serving with the local NAACP and YMCA.

“It’s truly rewarding to witness the ongoing expansion and success of our city’s Juneteenth celebration. Commemorating this important milestone in American history by uniting the diverse individuals who call Port Wentworth their home highlights the vibrancy and strength of our community,” said event founder and Port Wentworth Councilman Rufus Bright. “It is also a privilege to recognize Senator Derek Mallow and honor my mother’s legacy of championing humanity.”

Derek Mallow is the current representative for Georgia’s Senate District 2. After graduating from Savannah’s Jenkins High School, he earned a bachelor’s degree in leadership and ministry from Asbury University as well as a master’s in public administration from Savannah State University. In addition to serving in the Georgia House, Mallow has served with the Boy Scouts of America for the past 13 years and has created many youth-focused programs throughout the district. He is also a member of Alpha Phi Omega, a national service fraternity; the 100 Black Men of Savannah, and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

To learn more about this event or the City of Port Wentworth, please visit www.portwentworthga.gov or follow the city on social media.