HOUSTON, TX - It's a day Black Texans waited for, over 150 years ago, it has become a National Holiday, known as Juneteenth. History has noted that during these special times, Blacks celebrated this day with barbecue, with the barbecue pit always the center of attention. Today, hundreds will visit the legendary Ray's Real Pit BBQ Shack located in historic Third Ward Houston | 3929 Old Spanish Trail | Houston, TX from 11 AM to 8 PM. Known for their ribs, brisket, sausage and homemade sides it has become the gathering place for many in the community to not only remember a very special part of history but to eat, laugh and enjoy the company of their neighbors.

"Food has always been the key to bring people from all walks of life together, barbecue is part of our history in the black community that has not only brought us together, but has kept us together. Juneteenth is a special day for not only us as a family, but for our community. Knowing barbecue was one of the first meals of the Juneteenth celebrations brings even greater pride as we serve our customers," Herb Taylor, Co-owner Ray's Real Pit BBQ Shack.

The family-owned business opened their doors to their new location last month, hosting a celebration with Mayor Turner, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee, Original Texan Chester Pitts, Texans DJ Reader, Legendary ballerina Lauren Anderson and hundreds of their many customers and supporters. Ray's Real Pit BBQ Shack, "Smokin' Good with a Whole Lotta Soul," is a family owned and operated restaurant that has become a staple in Houston's Third Ward and Riverside communities. Since January 2011, the barbecue hotspot has been serving the community, it's less than a mile from the Medical Center, University of Houston (main campus) and Texas Southern University. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. and closed on Sunday. Ray's offers drop-off and full-service catering for all occasions, providing reliable, professional service with great food at a reasonable price.

For a full menu of Ray's BBQ Shack signature dishes, please visit www.raysbbqshack.com.