Denton’s annual Juneteenth celebration begins today in Fred Moore Park and features an array of local entertainment and games.

Organizers expect more than 1,200 attendees today and about 4,000 on Saturday.

Juneteenth celebrates June 19, 1865, the day news arrived in Galveston that the Civil War was over and slaves were free.

At 6 p.m., the two-day festival begins with the Gospel Extravaganza, which features several local church choirs, ensembles, soloists and some guests.

Willie Hudspeth, vice chairman of the Denton Juneteenth Committee, said this event, which has always been popular, has drawn increased interest from local churches this year.

“We’ve always had interest from local churches, but this year it’s going to be more,” he said.

On Saturday, a parade will begin at 10 a.m. from the Denton Civic Center, at 321 E. McKinney St., to Fred Moore Park at Wilson and Lakey streets. Lineup for the parade will begin at 9 a.m.

At Fred Moore Park, visitors can enjoy music and other entertainment. Food and other vendors will be on hand, as well as information booths and children’s games.

Several athletic events are scheduled for the festival, as well.

Hudspeth said the festival committee raised some money, and local churches pitched in to make the children’s games a bigger attraction.

“I’m so excited; I wish I was a kid again,” he said. Among the attractions are four bounce houses.

Basketball and three-point contests begin at 6 p.m. Friday. Cost is $1 per shot. A double-elimination softball tournament and a basketball tournament are planned for Saturday at the park.

MATTHEW ZABEL can be reached at 940-566-6884. His e-mail address is mzabel@dentonrc.com .