Thursday is Juneteenth, which celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. While this holiday was only declared a federal holiday in 2021, it’s been celebrated by Black communities in the U.S. for over 150 years. It’s considered the oldest African American holiday.
There are plenty of fun events this weekend that are great opportunities to teach your kids about this important moment in American history. Here’s a few in the Baltimore area to get you started!
Juneteenth Historic Marker Unveiling Celebration
June 19, 11 a.m.-noon
O’Donnell Square Park | 2917 O’Donnell St., Baltimore, MD 21224
Canton Anti-Racism Alliance and the Canton Community Association (CCA) will be unveiling a new historic marker, which will memorialize 48 enslaved people who worked on the Canton Plantation. Elected officials, historians and other community members will be in attendance to commemorate the often-ignored contributions of enslaved people, and it’s an unique opportunity to learn about an important part of Baltimore’s history.
Free | cantoncommunity.org
JUBILEE: A Celebration of 20 Years of The Lewis, Black Cultural Expression, Freedom, and Music
June 19, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Reginald F. Lewis Museum | 830 E Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202
The Reginald F. Lewis Museum is celebrating its 20th anniversary and Juneteenth at the same time at this community celebration, which will feature plenty of live music and dance for African American Music Appreciation Month! Celebrate the holiday by taking part in interactive art exhibits and enjoying delicious food from local, Black-owned vendors.
Free | lewismuseum.org
AfroFutro: A Journey to the Golden Cloud Nebula
June 21, 2-3 p.m.
The Walters Art Museum | 600 N Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21201
Afrofuturism imagines a future heavily influenced by Black culture and history. This free performance held in honor of Juneteenth by Afro House’s Astronaut Symphony explores the theme of Afrofuturism through music and spoken word, envisioning a future of love and liberation.
