June 19th — also known as Juneteenth, Emancipation Day, or Freedom Day — marks the official end of slavery in the United States, with the last slaves in Texas having been freed. In 2021, President Biden made Juneteenth a federal holiday in the U.S. to commemorate the landmark day. Below is a compilation of how businesses and institutions in Washington, D.C., are honoring the day:
Shopping and businesses
- Juneteenth Chocolate City Pop-Up Art Market and Art Fair features and highlights local businesses, go-go music, signature “Chocolate City cocktails, and much more. The metrobar event is free but donations are being accepted! (June 17 – 12 p.m. to 5 p.m)
Museums and exhibits
- The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture will be hosting a Juneteenth Community Day with a special exhibit “Senses of Freedom: The Taste, Sound, and Experience of an African American Celebration.” Though free, tickets must be acquired ahead of time. (June 17 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m)
- Check out the National Gallery of Art exhibit: “Called to Create: Black Artists of the American South.”
- The Kennedy Center is hosting a free outdoor screening of “Miss Juneteenth” (June 16 at sunset or 8 p.m.)
- Following mass that will feature preacher Sen. Raphael Warnock, the Washington National Cathedral will be hosting a free public forum called “Shaping a New Tomorrow,” which is part of the Cathedral’s racial justice initiative. (June 18 at 1:30 p.m.)
Music and Performances
- The Anthem is hosting the Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival’s Freedom Day Concert featuring headliners Wyclef Jean, Tarrus Riley with Dean Fraser & Black Soil Band, and Patrice Roberts, among others. (June 19; tickets range from $65-$153)
- The Anacostia Arts Center will be hosting a “Sounds of the City” Juneteenth kickback that will feature live go-go music, DJs, and a Black-owned pop-up shop. (June 17 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.)
Read more: 24 Sensational Ways To Spend June In D.C.