Newport News, Virginia, is set to commemorate Juneteenth with a series of free public events celebrating African American freedom and culture. The city invites residents and visitors to participate in educational and commemorative activities marking the end of slavery in the United States.
The 4th Annual Juneteenth Raising of the Flag Ceremony will take place on Monday, June 16, at 10 a.m. at City Hall, located at 2400 Washington Ave. This event aims to bring unity to the community as participants raise the flag symbolizing freedom for the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas. The flag will be displayed until sunset on June 19.
On Saturday, June 21, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., Victory Landing Park will host the 19th annual Freedom Festival. Attendees can enjoy music by DJ Eroc and performances by artists such as Dru Hill, Jazze Pha, Sammie, and 702. The festival will also feature spoken word artists, food vendors, educational exhibitors, line dancing sessions, and more.
Additional events include a special screening of “Glory” on Thursday, June 12, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Main Street Library (110 Main St). This historical drama about the first African American regiment in the Union Army during the Civil War won three Oscars.
From June 13-14 at Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center (2410 Wickham Ave), “Prelude to Freedom: The Contraband Slaves Story” will explore the journey of enslaved individuals seeking freedom during the Civil War.
The Main Street Library offers “Juneteenth Craft on The Go” from June 16-23 between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., providing crafts for children and young adults while supplies last.
Other activities include “Drum, Artz & Yoga” on Wednesday, June 18 at Wickham Avenue (2510 Wickham Ave) celebrating West African rhythms; followed by “Juneteenth Inspired Paint Night with Wanda” from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., featuring artist Wanda Basley leading a painting class focused on art and reflection.
