Skip to content
  • Celebrating 160 Years Of Freedom!

  • Join Our Parade

    We invite you to be part of history in motion by participating in the Upson Emancipation Celebration Parade! Whether you represent a business, church, school, organization, or simply want to celebrate with the community, we welcome you to join us. March alongside bands, community groups, and local leaders as we honor the legacy of freedom and unity. Your presence helps keep this powerful tradition alive and reminds us all that Our Story is Greater When We Come Together as One. Sign up today and help make this year’s parade a vibrant, unforgettable celebration!

  • Be A Vendor

    We invite you to become a vendor at the Upson Emancipation Celebration!

    Join us as we honor over 150 years of history, unity, and freedom with a day filled with festivities, community pride, and celebration at Lincoln Park.

    Vendors are an important part of creating the lively, welcoming atmosphere that makes our celebration unforgettable. Whether you sell food, merchandise, crafts, informational services, or cultural goods, we welcome you to be part of this historic event.

    Come share your products, connect with the community, and help us celebrate a tradition that continues to inspire generations!

  • Join Our Festival

    After the parade and speaking program, the celebration continues all day at Lincoln Park!

    Bring your family and friends and enjoy live music, giveaways, a Kids' Zone, vendors, delicious food, and more.

    There's something for everyone as we honor our history, celebrate our traditions, and create new memories together.

    Let’s come together as one community for a day full of fun, unity, and inspiration — because Our Story is Greater When We Come Together as One!

+

COMMUNITY VISITORS

+

VENDORS

+

PARADE PARTICIPANTS

+

YEARS OF FREEDOM

As we gather to honor the legacy of freedom, perseverance, and unity, we invite you to come and hear our keynote speaker share a powerful message rooted in the spirit of our theme: Our Story is Greater When We Come Together as One

Be part of the celebration. Be part of the story. Together, we are unstoppable.

Sub Heading

Main Heading

History of Freedom

The slaves of Upson County received the news that they were officially free.

1865

History of Freedom

William Guildford organized the first celebration. It was held on May 29, 1866. This event had 5 speakers!

1866

History of Freedom

On May 5, 1927, the Emancipation Committee purchased 14 acres of land in Lincoln Park.

1927

History of Freedom

The Emancipation Committee received a donation of 4 acres of land.

2023

+ YOU CAN HELP +

Celebrating Community

Our Story Is Greater When We Come Together As One.

Together, we can preserve our history and inspire the future. Your donation to the Emancipation Committee of Upson helps fund scholarships, community celebrations, and programs that strengthen and unite our community.

  • Emancipation Celebration
  • Heritage Awards Banquet
  • Youth Scholarships
  • MLK Week Celebration
  • Emancipation Revival
  • Back To School Giveaways

UPCOMING EVENTS

There’s so much more to celebrate!

Be sure to check out our full Calendar of Events to see everything happening with the Emancipation Committee of Upson. From parades and community celebrations to scholarships, giveaways, and special programs, there’s something for everyone.

Stay involved, stay inspired — and be part of history in the making!

Back to top