Hundreds gather for the Capital City Juneteenth celebration

Hundreds of people in Raleigh celebrated Black history Saturday afternoon with the Capital City Juneteenth Celebration.

Friends and family enjoyed a fun day with entertainment, food, and music at Dorothea Dix Park.

"I think it's a great thing, just to be able to have the recognition for the holiday and spread awareness," said Hannah Hackett.

This day is especially dear to Hackett and the Hunter family.

"The Hunter family, this area is very special to them, as the plantation that was here, their family originated," said Hackett. "So being out here with the Hunter family is a pretty special day."

Many attended, including the city's mayor, members of Congress, and community leaders.

The event was hosted by WRAL's Lena Tillett and Ken Smith.

The national holiday marks the day the last enslaved people in the South were told they were free.

"I think it's something we must continue to push as people to celebrate and commemorate," said event-goer.