Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and is dedicated to African Americans and their culture. This year marks the first official observance of Juneteenth as both a national and County paid holiday.
Here are some events in Montgomery County you can attend to celebrate this important holiday!
Freedom at the Rock
June 18 | 10am – 10pm
BlackRock Center for the Arts
12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown, MD
Celebrate Juneteenth with the City of Rockville and Montgomery County at a special event featuring live music, food, art, films and awards. This is a free family-friendly event, and all are encouraged to “share the event” on their social media pages.
This 12-hour long festival includes:
Exhibits and Vendors | 10am – 5pm
Stop by the exhibit area on the lawn for free resources and information provided by the County and City departments, partners and friends. Also, visit vendors that will be selling everything from artwork to jewelry.
Fun- N-Games | 10am – 5pm
Have fun challenging your friends, family and neighbors at the giant World of Sports and Basketball Connect Four.
Mirror Photo booth | 10am – 3pm
What is a family gathering without family photos? Stop by the photo booth and take a picture with family, friends and those you meet at Juneteenth!
Taste of Soul Food Bistro | 12pm
Indulge in the taste of Caribbean, African and Soul food. Don’t forget your flavored ice!
Brothers with Books | All Day
Visit the Brothers with Books tent and leave Juneteenth with a book or two – or more! It’s free!
Freedom Film Festival | All Day
Enjoy a series of films and documentaries that focus primarily on Black film to honor accomplishments and successes!
Arts and Cultural Activities | All Day
Come participate in a cultural craft that tells a story! These kid-friendly arts, craft and other activities are sure to be both entertaining and educational.
Music at the Pavilion | All Day
Bring Your Own Chair (BYOC) and enjoy the sounds of Soul, Jazz, and Caribbean music!
Josiah Henson Birthday Party Celebration
June 18 | 10am – 4pm
Josiah Henson Museum & Park
Celebrate the life of Reverend Josiah Henson and Juneteenth at the Josiah Henson Museum with free museum admission, hands on activities, refreshments and more. Learn about the life and challenges of Henson, enslavement in Maryland, and the ongoing struggles of racial equality and justice.
African American Living Legend Awards
June 18 | 10am
BlackRock Center for the Arts
12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown, MD
Join County Executive Elrich as he honors distinguished individuals who are living legends in Montgomery County! The honorees will be recognized for dedicating their lives to service and excellence, with accomplishments in an endless array of areas and fields.
Black Girl Magic Stories
June 18 | 1:30pm – 5pm
Sandy Spring Museum
17901 Bentley Rd, Sandy Spring, MD
Celebrate Juneteenth with a virtual/in-person hybrid event that includes live musical performances, spoken word poetry, and a Q&A panel with the cast moderated by Sydni Flowers! Those who attend the in-person event will also enjoy a private dessert and rosé reception with the cast, while virtual guests can experience the event from the comfort of their home (but must provide their own dessert and rosé!).
Juneteenth Black Business Expo
June 18 | 12pm – 6pm
The Peoples’ Community Baptist Church
31 Norwood Road, Silver Spring, MD
Come out and enjoy over 40 vendors, as the Extraordinary Investment Group hosts the Second Juneteenth Black Business Expo. There will be live performances, music, food, and entertainment for the kids, making this a family-friendly event you don’t want to miss!
Juneteenth Weekend at Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park
Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park
16501 Norwood Road, Sandy Spring, MD
Celebrate Juneteenth at Woodlawn Manor, Saturday June 18 & 19th. Enjoy free museum admission, explore the Before She Was Harriet StoryWalk®, pick up a children’s take-home activity, and take a hike along the Underground Railroad Experience Trail.
