Juneteenth honors the day that the last enslaved people in the United States learned of their freedom — a moment honoring the second independence day of the country. This occurred on the nineteenth day of June from which the holiday is recognized. Juneteenth has been celebrated since 1865, starting in Galveston, Texas, when it was called the African American Emancipation Day. Its joy has since spread across the country, and you can celebrate it in Prince George’s.
Honor this momentous day at one of these eight jubilant events:
- On June 13, catch a showing of “Summer of Soul,” a documentary film about the legendary 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival. The celebration of African American music and culture promoted Black pride and unity, and it featured performances by Nina Simone, Stevie Wonder, and Gladys Knight & The Pips.
- Listen to Shemika Berry tell stories of historical futures and her own character, Ms. Story. Berry is a historical interpreter, award-winning actress, and storyteller who advocates for telling the truth about our nation’s history. Join her at the Oxon Hill library on June 12 or the Bowie library on June 18 to hear her stories.
- Walk through the Fairmont Heights’ Historic African American Signage Trail from the Fairmount Heights library on June 15. You’ll hear stories of notable neighborhood community members and have the opportunity to share your own family stories. Stay after the walk for refreshments at the library.
- Join the Bowie Juneteenth Jubeliee at Allen Pond Park on June 15. The celebration will include a kid zone, a marketplace, food vendors, live entertainment, and an artist’s avenue. Enjoy the all-ages fun from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Head to the Accokeek library on June 18 to watch “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” See how the people of Wakanda fight to protect their home from dangerous world powers.
- Play a round of bingo at Spauldings Library and enjoy it with a Juneteenth history twist. At the June 18 event, there will be multiple rounds, fun prizes, and enjoyable company.
- Attend the Bowie Baysox baseball game on June 19 for its Juneteenth Celebration. You can celebrate the country’s second Independence Day with the team — and you can bring along your four-legged K-9 friends to the game. Teachers and educators can show their school ID for two free tickets.
- 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.