Happy Juneteenth! We celebrate freedom from slavery for all enslaved people on this day. On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed legislation making Juneteenth a national holiday. We are grateful for this holiday and to celebrate as a family with these top Juneteenth events.
Have fun at these Juneteenth events for families in the Washington, DC area.
Arlington Community Juneteenth Celebration & Cookout
1330 South Fair Street Arlington, VA 22202
Metropolitan Park is hosting a family-friendly event from 4-7 pm honoring the emancipation of enslaved Africans and African American culture. This year’s theme, “What freedom means to me,” celebrates strength, resilience, and integrity. Enjoy live music, cultural performances, delicious food, and activities for all ages. FREE admission, but reserve tickets online.
Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration at National Harbor
150 National Plaza National Harbor, Maryland
From 11 am to 7 pm explore the Freedom Day Black-Owned Marketplace in the Capital Canopy. Experience a cultural showcase with live music and various performances. Enjoy a Sip and Paint session inside Arts’tination, Prince George’s County’s new art space.
National Juneteenth Holiday at Market Square
Market Square, 301 King Street, Alexandria, VA
Join the Office of Historic Alexandria’s Division of African American History for a day celebrating Juneteenth and African American heritage. Experience a concert by the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices at this FREE event with music, dance, and stories. This event is co-sponsored by Washington Revels and the Office of Historic Alexandria. Storytelling starts at 1:30 pm and the concert starts at 2 pm.
Mount Vernon “Freedom Before Emancipation: Family Day for Juneteenth”
3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121
From June 19 to June 22, visit George Washington’s home and land to delve into the history of the enslaved people who lived at Mount Vernon. Experience a variety of performances, demonstrations, and the Enslaved People of Mount Vernon Specialty Tour. Visit the Slave Burial Ground Commemoration Ceremony to honor enslaved people. Tickets range from $15-28.
National Archives Emancipation Proclamation
700 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC
Visit the National Archives from June 18-20 to view the Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863. This document declares all enslaved people “shall be free” in each state. This pivotal document will be on display in the East Rotunda Gallery.
Juneteenth Freedom Celebration at Anacostia Community Museum
1901 Fort Place, SE, Washington, DC
Join the fun from 10am to 5pm for a family-friendly celebration. Experience live music from local musicians, explore the new “A Bold and Beautiful Vision” exhibition highlighting DC’s role in Black arts education. Plus, join lessons and contests for Double Dutch.
What ways to you celebrate Juneteenth? This is a newish holiday and we get to set in motion our own ways we plan to celebrate. Have fun celebrating at these Juneteenth events as a family!
