As the nation prepares to mark Juneteenth on June 19, the District of Columbia offers a rich array of events blending history, culture, music and community. Known as the celebration of the end of slavery in the United States, Juneteenth is both a joyous occasion and a moment of reflection.
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers first informed enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation took effect. In 2021, Congress passed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, formally recognizing it as a federal holiday, the first since Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1986.
Juneteenth remains important as a reminder of justice achieved, but also of justice still pending. While historians note emancipation came at different times across regions, Juneteenth has grown to symbolize a nationwide reckoning with slavery’s legacy and a celebration of Black culture, resiliency and contributions.
This year, as the federal government continues to work to dismantle systems and organizations dedicated to promoting diversity, it’s important to honor Juneteenth and celebrate the communities around us. Here are five ways to get out and celebrate with the people around you.
1. Freedom & Unity Walk beneath 11th Street Bridge
On June 19, community leaders will lead a historical walk across the 11th Street Bridge, marking the very path enslaved people once took toward freedom. Organized by activist Ron Moten, this “Juneteenth Jubilee: Freedom & Unity Walk” is meant to unite the modern-day city while honoring Anacostia’s rich legacy.
2. Visit the Slavery and Freedom exhibit at the National Museum of African American History & Culture
For a powerful and contemplative experience, the “Slavery and Freedom” exhibit at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture provides crucial context to Juneteenth. Located on the museum’s lower concourse, the exhibit chronicles more than 400 years of African American history—from the transatlantic slave trade to emancipation and Reconstruction. Timed-entry passes are required and will be available at 8:15 a.m. ET online. and the museum is open on Juneteenth with extended hours expected due to holiday demand.
3. National Archives: Historical Documents on Display
From June 19–22, the National Archives on Capitol Hill will display the original Emancipation Proclamation and General Order No. 3, which announced the end of slavery in Texas. These fragile, rarely seen documents are a powerful connection to the past—and an educational highlight of the holiday.
4. ONE DC’s Community Festival, June 19
At the ONE DC Black Workers & Wellness Center on MLK Jr. Avenue SE, a Juneteenth Community Festival will take place June 19 from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Hosted by grassroots organizers, the festival features live music, spoken-word performances, local vendors, food stalls and a chance to reflect on the ongoing struggle for equity.
5. National Harbor ‘Freedom Day’ Celebration
Just across the Potomac, National Harbor, Md., will present a vibrant Freedom Day celebration on June 19 (11 a.m.–5 p.m.), featuring a Black-owned marketplace, cultural performances on the Rhythm & Roots stage, and an evening outdoor screening of Black Panther.
Events honoring Juneteenth don’t stop after Thursday, with the annual Anacostia Community Museum Celebration taking place this year on Saturday due to forecasted weather. The free festival includes morning yoga, urban gardening workshops, arts and poetry, and live performances and it is perfect for all ages.
In the years since the holiday became formally recognized as a national holiday, Juneteenth has only continued to grow. As events expand, so does the opportunity for learning, healing and celebrating true freedom.
