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
1325 South Dinwiddie Street
Metropolitan Park is hosting a family-friendly event from 4-7 pm honoring the emancipation of enslaved Africans and African American culture. 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 screening of Black Panther on the Plaza.
Washington Revels Jubilee Voices Concert
1401 Jamieson Ave., Alexandria, VA
Experience a concert by the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices at this FREE event with music, dance, and stories from 1-3PM.
Juneteenth Festival
Charles Houston Rec Center, 901 Wythe St. Alexandria, VA
On Friday, June 19 there is another FREE event in Alexandria! More music, storytelling, food, and family fun will be available from 3-8PM.
Mount Vernon “Freedom Before Emancipation: Family Day for Juneteenth”
3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121
June 19 and June 20, 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 $16-30.
National Archives Emancipation Proclamation
700 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC
Visit the National Archives 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. Find more information on how to see this pivotal document HERE.
Juneteenth Freedom Celebration at Anacostia Community Museum
1901 Fort Place, SE, Washington, DC
Join the fun from 10am to 10pm for a family-friendly celebration. Experience live music from local musicians, poetry, wellness workshop, storytelling, and a skating experience in the parking lot. Registration encouraged.
National Museum of African American History and Culture Events
1400 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC
Juneteenth Trunk Show at Heritage Hall
Attend this event to meet and greet local vendors.
Juneteenth Community Day
This event honors Opal Lee, the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.” Enjoy a storytime, dance, cooking, and art workshops.
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!
