Juneteenth

June 19, 2024

Juneteenth commemorates the "effective emancipation of enslaved people" in the United States. Whom the Son set free, was not free indeed. The Emancipation Declaration was signed January 1,1863 but enslaved people in Galveston, Texas didn't get word of their freedom from chattel slavery until June 19, 1865. We give thanks to Opal Lee, the "grandmother of the movement" for making it a national holiday.

Explore Historic Meeting House and Grounds
Saturday, June 15, 11 AM-2 PM
Frying Pan Farm Park (2709 West Ox Road, Herndon, VA 20171)
Delve into the history of the Frying Pan Baptist Meeting House, where African American congregants fought for freedoms and formed a vibrant post-emancipation community. Guided tours of the church will shed light on the resilience and triumphs of African American individuals and families. Learn more: fairfaxcounty.gov.

Juneteenth Community Day Celebration
Saturday, June 15, 11 AM-4:30 PM
National Museum of African American History & Culture (1400 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560)
Celebrate Juneteenth through a day filled with educational and cultural programs that enrich understanding and honor the legacy of freedom, movement, and migration. This community day promises an unforgettable experience, blending history, culture, and celebration. Learn more: nmaahc.si.edu.

Vienna Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 15, 11 AM-3 PM
First Baptist Church of Vienna (450 Orchard Street, NW, Vienna, VA 22180)
Presented by First Baptist Church of Vienna and The Liberty Amendments Month Committee, this Juneteenth celebration features live music, food trucks, kids book give away, kids games and activities and a classic car show. Learn more: viennava.gov.

Juneteenth Commemoration
Saturday, June 15, 3 PM
Bull Run Regional Park Campground (7700 Bull Run Dr, Centreville, VA 20121)
Join a celebration of the largest emancipation prior to the Civil War and the lives of the enslaved and their descendants. The commemoration includes reflections on Emancipation, music, stories of freedom for kids, ice cream and words of remembrance and hope by Bishop Brett Fuller. Learn more: novaparks.com.

Freedom Day Black-Owned Marketplace
Wednesday, June 19, 11 AM-7 PM
National Harbor (165 Waterfront St, National Harbor, MD 20745)
Celebrate Juneteenth at National Harbor and support the community and check out a variety of businesses, food vendors and stick around for the cultural performances starting at 5 PM on the Plaza Stage. Learn more: nationalharbor.com.

United Christian Parish will be closed on Wednesday, June 19.