Emancipation Celebration
Welcome to Upson's Emancipation Celebration also known as May 29th or Thomaston Day!
On May 29, 1865, the slaves of Upson County received the news that they were free! One year later on May 29, 1866, they had their first organized celebration.
For over 150 years, the small community of Upson has held this historic event for the world to witness!
Celebrating History. Celebrating Traditions. Celebrating Freedom.
The Parade
The LineUp
All roads lead to the Emancipation Celebration also known as the May 29th Festival!
On Saturday May 25, 2024, we will be having a parade!
If you are interested in participating, please make sure you fill out the parade application here.
The parade registration will begin at 9:00am, the lineup will start at 10:00am and the parade will start at 11:00am! We invite you to be a part of this historic celebration!
The Route
The parade will start at 900 N. Hightower Street, at the old Thomaston Mills Parking Lot. The parade will move down N Bethel Street to East Main Street and make a right turn onto East Main Street (5 Way Stop / Dollar General). The parade will travel on East Main Street then make a left onto S. Church Street (Colony Bank) and “end” at Southside BP 500 S. Center Street.
The parade will then split where participants on our program will go to Lincoln Park and children and others will be escorted back to The Parking Lot.
SEE MAP! Join the festival at Lincoln Park!
The Program
The History
Thomaston is famous for the Emancipation Celebration, held on or around May 29th! Why the 29th of May? Records show that on May 29, 1865, the slaves of Upson County were brought to town and told they were free!
On May 29, 1866, William Guildford organized the first celebration!
Records show there were 5 speakers for the celebration. They talked about being a peaceful and honest people and forgiveness.
For over 150 years, we have kept the tradition that is The Emancipation Program! We have also continued the traditions of centered themes.
We hope that you can join us in Lincoln Park, immediately following the parade for a wonderful program that is sure to impress!
The Festival
Vendors
All roads lead to the Emancipation Celebration also known as the May 29th Festival!
On Saturday May 25, 2024, we will be having a festive good time after our program! We are working to bring to our community! From a Kid's Zone to Live Entertainment, we are ready to celebrate freedom the right way!
If you are interested in being a vendor, please make sure you fill out the vendor application here..
More information will come in regard to vendor prices and set-up, please stay tuned!
