Juneteenth events to check out around D.C.

Juneteenth (June 19) is Monday, and weekend-long celebrations are planned to commemorate when the last enslaved people in the U.S., in Galveston, Texas, received news of their freedom.

Why it matters: The new (as of 2021) federal holiday is a time to celebrate Black history, culture, and community.

The Annual Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival is bigger than ever with three days of nonstop events (Saturday-Monday), including a Motown concert at Bethesda Blues and Jazz on Saturday; a concert with Wyclef Jean and Tarrus Riley at the Anthem in D.C. on Monday; a film festival in Silver Spring; and a community festival at Cabin John Park.

The Museum of African American History and Culture is hosting a Juneteenth Community Day (Saturday, 11am-3pm). Indoor passes are sold out, but there are plenty of unticketed outdoor activities including culinary demos in the museum garden, storytelling, and African drumming.

Annapolis Juneteenth is a day trip-worthy parade and festival (Saturday, starting at noon) where thousands gather to watch floats, bands, and dancers move from the City Dock, plus an all-day outdoor carnival with live music, food vendors, and fireworks.

Juneteenth Chocolate City Pop-Up Art Market and Fair heads to Metrobar (Saturday, 12pm-5pm). The Artbae co-hosted event will feature artisans, go-go music, food trucks, and Chocolate City cocktails.