Juneteenth Celebrations & Events in Williamsburg, VA
The Historic Triangle is a fitting place to honor Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Williamsburg strives to tell the full, honest, and inclusive story of the African American experience in the destination, and you can expect plenty of events that celebrate and reflect on the deep significance of this historic holiday. Visitors can expect a variety of events that celebrate and reflect on the deep significance of this historic holiday, offering opportunities for education, remembrance, and community connection.
Central to these efforts is the Williamsburg Juneteenth Community Consortium—a collaborative network of local organizations committed to commemorating emancipation and uplifting the African American community. Through educational initiatives, cultural programming, and inclusive celebrations, the Consortium plays a vital role in ensuring that Juneteenth is honored with the depth and respect it deserves.
In recognition of Juneteenth, admission to several of the region’s most significant historic sites is free on June 19. Colonial Williamsburg offers complimentary admission to all guests, while both Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown also provide free entry. These opportunities invite the public to engage with the region’s rich history and reflect on the legacy of freedom and resilience.
Community Celebrations
Kick off a powerful week of remembrance and joy on June 14 at Freedom Park with the Juneteenth Freedom Fest. This family-friendly event features a full lineup of live music, spoken word, dance performances, local food trucks, and artisan vendors and it set at the historic site of America’s first free Black settlement.
On June 19, the celebrations continue with the Juneteenth Freedom Celebration, hosted by The Village Initiative for Equity in Education. This joyful community event includes a lively parade, delicious food, interactive kids’ activities, and live entertainment that uplifts voices and stories from the African American experience. Come out to celebrate freedom, unity, and progress with neighbors and friends.
Services & Ceremonies
On June 15, begin the day with a powerful moment of reflection at the Juneteenth Sunrise Service, hosted by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. This annual service invites the community to honor the spirit of Juneteenth through a moving keynote address, spiritual music, and words of remembrance. Due to the inclement weather forecasted for Sunday, the Juneteenth Sunrise Service will be moved to the Virginia Room in the Williamsburg Lodge.
Conclude the week's journey with the 4th Annual Journey to Racial Healing Ceremony, hosted by the Virginia Racial Healing Institute and Coming to the Table. This year’s special guest is Charles Holman, who shares a deeply personal story of reconciliation.
In honor of Juneteenth, admission to Colonial Williamsburg is free for all on June 19. You won't want to miss the African Baptist Meeting House Groundbreaking or the Williamsburg Bray School Public Opening!
Thought-provoking history
Step into the past with Prelude to Juneteenth: Reclaiming the River on June 15 at Jamestown Settlement. This immersive experience invites participants to view the documentary film, "Reclaiming the River: African American Life on Virginia's Waterways," and then paddle on waterways near the James River—the very waters that once bore witness to the earliest chapters of American history.
In honor of Juneteenth, admission to Jamestown Settlement and the Prelude to Juneteenth program is free on June 15 with advance registration. The river paddle is $35 and requires advance registration.
On June 19, Juneteenth, admission to Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is free for all.
This Juneteenth, come together with the Williamsburg community to honor the past, celebrate the present, and embrace the future.
The WilliamsBLOG
View All PostsCelebrate Black History Month in Williamsburg: A Guide to Black-Owned Businesses You Need to Visit
Williamsburg, Virginia, is a city brimming with history, charm, and culture. This Black History Month…
Experience Black History at Williamsburg Museums
Williamsburg’s museums strive to tell a full, honest, and inclusive story of Virginia’s history…
Unearthing The Rich History Of Black Life And Achievement In Williamsburg
As a New York Times bestselling author of The Humanity Archive , a book that highlights the untold stories of…
7 Homeschool Activities in Williamsburg that Focus on Black History
Black History Month is an annual observance of all the achievements and the impact of African American people in…
How Black History is Being Preserved in Williamsburg
As a family historian and founder of History Before Us , a project centered on capturing, preserving, and…