WALDORF, Md. – On Saturday, June 20, 2026, hundreds of residents gathered at the Shops at Waldorf Center for the 7th Annual Charles County Juneteenth Celebration, presented by the Charles County Juneteenth Foundation.
The event brought together families, community organizations, local businesses, performers, educators, elected officials, and visitors from across the region for an afternoon dedicated to reflection, education, culture, and community. More images are available at https://gallery.alleynemedia.com/charlescountyjuneteenthcelebration2026/
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued. Today, communities across the nation observe the holiday as both a celebration of freedom and an opportunity to reflect on the continuing pursuit of opportunity, equity, and community advancement.
The Charles County celebration offered something for all ages. Attendees enjoyed live entertainment from the Voice 24/7 Band, explored a diverse collection of local vendors, sampled offerings from food trucks, and participated in family-friendly activities throughout the day. Scholarship awards were also presented, highlighting the Foundation’s commitment to supporting future generations of leaders and scholars.
A number of local, state, and federal elected officials attended the celebration, joining residents in recognizing the importance of the occasion. During his remarks, Governor Wes Moore reflected on the broader significance of Juneteenth, noting that “Juneteenth is not just about freedom. It’s about liberation and the work that remains.” His comments echoed a theme that was present throughout the day: honoring history while continuing to invest in stronger communities for the future…