Juneteenth honors the day that the last enslaved people in the United States learned of their freedom. This occurred on the nineteenth day of June, and the name comes from that combination. The holiday has been celebrated since 1865 in Galveston, Texas when it was called the African American Emancipation Day — and it's now spread across the country.

 

Honor this momentous day at one of these 10 jubilant events:

 

  1. Celebrate Juneteenth early at the Juneteenth Festival on June 10. The Hyattsville Branch Library will host a tour of local families’ histories and black history collections, a genealogy discussion, Juneteenth Bingo, and crafts like family photo frames and a community poster.

 

  1. Catch a screening of the documentary film “Juneteenth” by the University of Pennsylvania, then participate in a discussion and trivia session. The New Carrollton Library is hosting the event on June 14.

 

  1. Bring the kids to the Hillcrest Heights Library on June 14 to watch The Princess and the Frog. The screening is to commemorate Juneteenth and celebrate the triumphs of African Americans.

 

  1. Play Juneteenth Celebration Bingo at the Spauldings Library in District Heights on June 15. At this outdoor event, all the questions will be focused on the history, significance, and impact of the holiday with a life-size Bingo board.

 

  1. Take an African dance class on June 16 at the amphitheater in Allen Pond Park in Bowie. Participants of all ages and abilities are welcome for this celebratory dance and music event.

 

  1. Attend the Juneteenth celebration at Watkins Regional Park on June 17 in Upper Marlboro. The programming will include entertainment and education through performances, family activities, vendors, and a genealogy workshop.

 

  1. Take a Juneteenth Walk on June 17 along the Fairmont Heights’ Historic African American Signage Trail. In the spirit of freedom and celebration, the guides from Fairmount Heights and participants will share family stories and stories of notable community members.

 

  1. Join the Juneteenth Family Reunion at Allen Pond Park in Bowie on June 17. The city and Ruby’s Southern Comfort Kitchen are coming together for this celebration which will include food, inflatable rides, music, dance, games, vendors, and entertainment.

 

  1. Head to National Harbor for a Juneteenth celebration on June 19 that bolsters black-owned businesses with a marketplace in the Capital Canopy and brings joy through cultural performances on the Plaza Stage.

 

  1. Make a wall hanging that honors the Juneteenth Celebration at Sew Chic Fabrics and Crafts. The fellowship, food, and painting event includes one wall hanging and your choice of drinks.

 

Find more history-focused activities in Prince George’s.