Celebrate Juneteenth Weekend in Baltimore

June 17, 2022

On June 19, 1865, enslaved African Americans in Texas were told they were free. A century and a half later, people across the country continue to commemorate this important day, which is now a federal holiday. Here are some ideas of how you can celebrate Juneteenth in Baltimore this weekend.

Events Around Town

Baltimore AFRAM

June 18 & 19 | 12 – 8 PM | Druid Hill Park

This two-day festival is a celebration of Black Excellence with performers, food, art, and fun for the whole family. AFRAM is one of the largest African American festivals on the east coast and aims to teach people about African American culture and highlight the excellence within the Black community, locally and nationally.

Juneteenth Celebration: Education as Liberation

June 20 | 11 AM – 4 PM | Reginald F. Lewis Museum

Commemorate this significant moment in Black history with a FREE day at the Lewis Museum focused on “Education as Liberation.” Barbecue lovers can learn about grilling and its significance in Black communities with Damian Mosley from Black Sauce Kitchen. Sculptor Oletha DeVane will talk with Dr. John Wood about her installation, Memorial to Those Enslaved and Freed, and its connection to the history of the McDonogh Schools’ relationship with enslaved people. There will also be make-and-take activities for kids. Plus, don’t miss the Men of Change: Power.Triumph. Truth. Exhibition where you can learn about Black men as iconic changemakers.

Annual Juneteenth Festival and Marketplace

June 19 | 3 – 7 PM | Eubie Blake National Jazz and Cultural Center

Performance at Eubie Blake Cultural Center

Celebrate African American culture and the principle of Ujima (collective work and responsibility) and Juneteenth. This year’s celebration features more than 25 artists and performers. The experience will include poetry, dance, music, storytelling, and art and will present the self-determination, artistry, and faith of Black Baltimore.

Juneteenth Father’s Day Soul Marathon

June 19 | Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena

The Juneteenth Father’s Day Soul Marathon will have performances by Freddie Jackson, The Manhattans Featuring Gerald Alston. Special performances include The Softones, Bloodstone, Blue Magic, The Temprees, First Impression, J’Kar, Palovation, and Style. Hosted by Ms. Maybelle with Special Guest DJ Mike Jones and DJ Unique.

Juneteenth Community Walk

June 18 |10:30 AM – 4 PM | Pennsylvania Avenue A.M.E. Zion Church

This 5K will to raise funds to support educational opportunities for children, youth, and adults in Baltimore City’s underserved communities. The goal is to do more to help the elementary schools in the community by offering tutoring sessions and camps, entrepreneur cohorts, computers, and other resources needed for diverse generations in the Heritage Crossing and Upton communities in Baltimore City.