Milwaukee's north side came alive with the sounds of celebration today.

A parade marked the start of the city's Juneteenth Day festivities.

Juneteenth Day marks the day when the last slaves left in America were told of the Emancipation Proclamation. 

After the parade, a street festival began on Dr. Martin Luther King Drive. But organizers want people to know that it's much more than just a party.

"This tradition of recognizing freedom in this way, celebrating and coming together, is a very cultural one for us. I think sometimes people miss that in all of the celebration but it's so great to see so many people coming out to recognize this day," said Ald. Milele Coggs.

The celebration continues until 6 p.m.