by Peggy Robin
There are many good options for those who want to celebrate the
Juneteenth federal holiday in the regions -- and Washingtonian Magazine has a good roundup of them - available here:
Of the nine great events included in the article, the one I want to pitch to you is happening at perhaps the least known of the Smithsonian's many museums -- and it's a hidden gem. But an endangered one (more on that at the end of this column).
It's the Juneteenth celebration at the Anacostia Community Museum. Here's what's happening for the holiday:
When Thursday, June 19, 2025, 10 AM – 5 PM
Venue Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Place SE
Cost Free
Join us as we honor Juneteenth with a day full of culture, community, and celebration! From engaging workshops to powerful performances, this event is a tribute to resilience, creativity, and heritage.
🌿 Morning Yoga & Urban Gardening (10 AM - 12 PM) Start the day with a Morning Yoga by Grounded, followed by an Urban Gardening Workshop that explores the deep-rooted agricultural traditions of African American culture. Participants will:
✅ Discover the historical significance of canning and root cellars
✅ Learn how to plant now for a fall and winter harvest
✅ Get expert tips on container gardening and winter storage
✅ Explore multi-planting techniques for a bountiful harvest
✅ Take home a Root Vegetable Grow Bag and witness a fresh pickle-making demo
Both morning workshops will have limited giveaways! First come, first serve.
🎶 Main Stage Performances (Starting at 12 PM)
The stage comes alive at 12pm, Hosted by BeMo Brown and vibes all day by Miss HER. The incredible lineup of artists and performers:
🎧 DJ Set – Miss HER
🎤 Spoken Word by Teen Poet Lemonade Dream
🎶 Pinky tha Rapper – High-energy lyrical storytelling
🎸 Joi Carter & Band – Soulful melodies and live music
🔥 Black Alley Band (Headliner) – A dynamic fusion of funk, rock, and go-go
🎨 Community Art & Cultural Activities
🖌️ Interactive Mural – Curated by local artist Brian Bailey
💃🏾 Double Dutch – A classic community favorite
🍽️ Local Food Trucks – Enjoy delicious bites throughout the day
Come together with family, friends, and neighbors to celebrate freedom, culture, and community. This is a FREE event open to all!
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Sadly, 2025 may be the last year under the present administration that the Anacostia Community Museum can remain open. It is under threat being defunded. Here's an article that explains the threat:
What Could Trump’s Proposed Smithsonian Cuts Mean for Two DC Museums? The White House's budget would pull all government funding from the Anacostia Community Museum and the planned National Museum of the American Latino.
Published on June 2, 2025
Go while you still can and show your support for this small jewel in the Smithsonian's crown!
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