Juneteenth Events In Hampton Roads
Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery in the United States, specifically recognizing the date (June 19, 1865) when the last remaining enslaved African Americans in the United States (Texas) were told they were free. To read more on the history of Juneteeth, click here.
Scroll down for a list of events happening in Hampton Roads.
Online via Old Dominion University
The ODU Office of Community Engagement will host a live virtual tour of the 400th Commemoration art exhibit at the Goode Theatre. The online tour will be guided by Ted Ellis, starting at 4 p.m. on June 19.
It is free, but registration is required. Click here to register
Online via Virginia Humanities
The Virginia African American Cultural Resources (VAACR) Task Force will host a Juneteenth online conversation on the state of Black historic preservation in Virginia on June 19 from noon- 1 p.m.
It is free, but registration is required. Click here to register.
The Hampton Branch NAACP has organized & partnered with the Urban League of Hampton Roads, Hampton University, Sentara, and Va. Department of Health to host a Juneteenth “your health is your wealth” free coronavirus drive-thru testing event on Friday, June 19 from 9 a.m.- noon at the Emancipation Oak parking lot on HU’s campus. Emancipation Drive is down the street from the Hampton University Convocation Center. Free masks will be distributed and more.
Juneteenth Week at Now You're Cooking!
When: Through Saturday, June 20, 2020
Where: Now You're Cooking Culinary Studio, 1128 North Battlefield Boulevard, Chesapeake VA
Description: We will have chefs, caterers, restaurateurs, and food trucks each day! The list will be provided in the event. Each day new menus will be offered.
Click here for more information.
Juneteenth Celebration (Chesapeake)
When: Friday, June 19, 2020, from 11 am - 4 pm
Where: Chesapeake City Park: 900 City Park Drive, Chesapeake, Virginia 23320
Description: Our Inaugural Celebration includes entertainment, arts & crafts, and special guest speakers! This event is free! Take a break and enjoy Family-Friendly Fun, Entertainment, and Education from local Residents who CARE about our heritage, culture, and future generations! Bring your own chairs, blankets, and snacks!
IMPORTANT: **Pavilion space is limited to 50 people, per Virginia State Phase II Guidelines Social Distancing and safe interaction regulations are required**
Click here for more information.
Juneteeth A Freedom Day Celebration (Newport News)
When: Friday, June 19, 2020, from 4-8 pm
Where: Contemporary Arts Network 9601 Warwick Blvd Newport News, Virginia
Description: We invite you to join us as we come together for a day of artistic expression and catharsis in response to the current events. The day will consist of outdoor music, DJ sets, spoken word performances, mural tours, and vendors.
If you are interested in going indoors to view the new CAN Headquarters, we will be giving small group guided tours throughout the day. At 7 pm you may join us for a meditation walk from the CAN Headquarters to Huntington Beach where the day will culminate with a performance art piece upon arrival. We look forward to a day of celebration, togetherness, growth, healing, and creation.
Click here for more information.
CommUNITY Rally for Social Justice & Education Reform (Norfolk)
When: Friday, June 19, 2020, from 11 am-2 pm
Where: Town Point Park, Norfolk VA
Description: Please join us for a peaceful rally that day to show our support for the Black Lives Matter movement and to help bring change to our society as a whole.
Click here for more information.
Voter Registration Kickoff and Juneteenth Celebration (Norfolk)
When: Friday, June 19, 2020, from 2-5 pm
Where: 1000 Holt Street, Norfolk VA 23504
Description: Come celebrate our liberation with voter registration! Even if you are registered - come fellowship together and bring someone who needs to register! Masks required. Social distancing expected. Raffles for Prizes! Music! Snacks! Outdoor Event!
Click here for more information. Click here to register to volunteer or participate.
35th Street Juneteenth Celebration (Norfolk)
When: Friday, June 19 and Saturday, June 20, 2020
Where: Freshtopia VA: 532 W 35th Street Suite C, Norfolk, Virginia 23508
Description: 2 Day Festival celebrating Culture, Food, and Music. Due to COVID-19, we had to remove the Live Band Element. Music will be provided by Freshtopia VA on both days. Vendors spaces are available. Food Trucks TBA. Restaurants: Cuttas Kitchen, Croaker Spot, Jakoni Cafe
Click here for more information.
Juneteenth - A Celebration of Freedom (Portsmouth)
When: Friday, June 19, 2020, at 4 pm
Where: Portsmouth Festival Park, 16 Crawford Circle, Portsmouth VA
Description: Join us on June 19, 2020, for a day of remembrance. Wear a mask and bring a chair.