Fairfax County Parks Authority

 

History Talks: The Long Road to Freedom 

U.S. Army & Juneteenth

National Museum of the United States Army

June 12, 19

On June 12 and 19, the National Museum of the United States Army's monthly History Talk event will highlight Juneteenth and Emancipation Day. This History Talk will explore the role of the US Army in the liberation of enslaved persons and also honor Black Soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives for freedom for all. 

Journeys in Genealogy

June 14

The National Museum of African American History and Culture and Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House will host a genealogy program on June 14 for visitors to learn about tracing your family tree while also highlighting the similarities and differences unique to African American genealogy. This program will complement Woodlawn’s new exhibit, "Woodlawn: People & Perspectives." This exhibit delves into the contributions of African American families. 

Family Day for Juneteenth at George Washington’s Mount Vernon

June 19-22

People of all ages can celebrate Emancipation Day to honor the enslaved people who fought for freedom. This family day at George Washington's Mount Vernon is dedicated to learning more about Ona Judge, Christopher Sheels, and many other men and women who left a lasting legacy. Special performance, Breaths Along the Potomac: Breath Art Silent Walks at Mount Vernon with Dominic Shodekeh Talifero.

Paths of Freedom Seekers

June 19

Visit Ellanor C. Lawrence Park on June 19 for Paths of Freedom Seekers, including stories of African Americans who were forced to live and work on this farm. Reflect on individuals’ stories of resistance and survival. Learn how enslaved communities and freedom seekers forged a path of resilience throughout American history. 

Fairfax County NAACP Juneteenth Celebration

Join the Third Annual Bull Run Juneteenth Commemoration, sponsored by Fairfax County NAACP and NOVA Parks.

Date: Saturday, June 15
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Bull Run Regional Park, Atlantis Waterpark
7700 Bull Run Dr, Centreville, VA 20121

This event is a special tribute to the largest emancipation before the Civil War, honoring the lives of the enslaved people and their descendants. 

Come and experience:

• Reflections on Emancipation: Dive deep into the significance of this historic moment.

• Words of Remembrance and Hope: Join Bishop Brett Fuller as he inspires us with uplifting words of hope that have carried generations through adversity and triumph.

• Music to Inspire: Enjoy the powerful rhythms and melodies that echo the spirit of freedom, strength and unity.

• Stories of Freedom for Kids: Ignite curiosity and courage in the next generation and empower them to shape a better future.

• Ice Cream Social sponsored by Dominion Energy.

Let’s come together to reflect, celebrate, and honor this significant moment in history. 

www.novaparks.com/bullrunjuneteenth

Juneteenth Ceremony, June 15, in Fairfax City

Fairfax City will also hold a free Juneteenth celebration on Saturday, June 15, in Old Town Square, 10415 North St. Juneteenth National Independence Day is the day in 1865, June 19, when enslaved people near Galveston, Texas first learned they were free. President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation freeing enslaved people on Jan. 1, 1863.

The opening ceremony is at 10 a.m. and will feature a variety of speakers, including Mayor Catherine Read, Deputy City Manager Valmarie Turner and Sen. Saddam Salim (D-37th). Then, from 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m., there’ll be live entertainment on stage, as well as food and informational vendors, plus cookie decorating, crafts, facepainting and a balloon artist for children.