The 2024 Juneteenth in the Dotte parade on Sat. June 8 was a lively, joyous celebration of Black history, culture, and freedom in Wyandotte County, Kansas.
Fifth Street in Kansas City, Kansas, came alive along the parade route with the sounds of marching bands, rhythmic dance teams, thumping car stereos, and cheers of the crowds.
Rain showers threatened to literally rain on the parade, but the skies cooperated. Spectators lined the road, waving flags as marching bands, classic car clubs, dance teams, and other community groups made their way down the route.
In addition to the parade itself, the Juneteenth in the Dotte committee organized an array of fun activities and vendors surrounding the event. Food trucks offered a variety of delicious fare, while retail vendors offered merchandise celebrating Black art and culture for sale. Games, bouncy houses, and other kid-friendly attractions kept families entertained all day long.
The committee members are already looking ahead to planning for the 2025 celebration of this cherished holiday in Wyandotte County.
Here’s a look at the highlights of the Juneteenth in The Dotte parade:
A color guard begins the parade followed by police and sheriff’s officers. 
The NAACP youth. 
Dancers from Rosie’s Dance Academy. 
Dancers from Rosie’s Dance Academy. 
Shriner in his “Tin Lizzy” tiny car. 
Shriners making their way down the street. 
Spectators and vendors lined Fifth Street. 
Xclusive Cheer and Dance. 
Kansas City Kansas Mayor and Wyandotte County CEO Tyronne Garner 
The KCK All Star Band. 
The KC Gators Youth Sports Club. 
The Jeep Car Club. 
Horses at the parade. 
Smoke from food vendors filled the air. 
The end of the parade line, until next year.
