Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and informed enslaved people that they were free — more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.
The holiday has grown into a nationwide celebration of freedom, as well as Black history and culture, and was officially recognized as a federal holiday in 2021. Across Hampton Roads, a variety of events will continue to honor and celebrate this important occasion.
JazzTeenth Festival — Virginia Beach Oceanfront
A new festival is bringing live music and free family fun to Virginia Beach on June 20. The inaugural JazzTeenth Festival combines Juneteenth heritage with live music and community fun.
The free festival runs Saturday at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at 24th Street Park on Atlantic Avenue. Headliners include Keke Wyatt and Vivian Green.
Juneteenth Parade — Norfolk’s Diggs Town & Campostella neighborhoods
The annual Juneteenth parade and celebration, centered around Richard A. Tucker Memorial Library in Norfolk’s Campostella and Diggs Town area, returns June 20 with a parade, live entertainment, cultural exhibits and family activities…