Juneteenth is a time for reflection, celebration, and connection within the Black community and beyond. As we approach June 19, 2025, The D/M/V is gearing up for a vibrant celebration of freedom, culture, and history. Don’t wait to see who’s going. Treat yourself to joyful ways to honor this significant day. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best events happening in the capital.
Experience history at the National Archives Museum
From June 19 to June 22, the National Archives Museum will host a special display of two pivotal documents: the Emancipation Proclamation and General Order No. 3. This exhibit offers a unique opportunity to witness the words that changed the course of American history. As you stand before these powerful artifacts, take a moment to reflect on the struggles and triumphs that have shaped our present. The National Archives is a must-stop for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of Juneteenth’s significance. These documents are only shown to the public every 3 years for 36 hours to preserve their fragility. In these days of erasure and disappearing legal documents—this is truly a must see with your own eyes.
When: June 19 – June 22, 2025
Where: National Archives Museum, 701 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.
Admission: Free
Dive into comic book culture at Phillips@THEARC
For a creative twist on Juneteenth, visit Phillips@THEARC for the exhibition “From Brotherman to Batman,” running until July 24. This showcase features 20 Black artists who have made significant contributions to the comic book world, including Dawud Anyabwile, creator of Brotherman, and Denys Cowan, a legendary Batman illustrator. Explore how these artists use their craft to tell powerful stories that resonate with the Black experience. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate Black creativity and innovation.
When: Wednesday & Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Phillips@THEARC, 1801 Mississippi Avenue SE, Washington, D.C.
Admission: Free
Discover the revolutionary art of Elizabeth Catlett
Another must-see is the “Elizabeth Catlett: A Black Revolutionary Artist” exhibition at the National Gallery of Art. Running until July 6, this exhibit showcases over 150 works by the iconic artist-activist, including prints and sculptures that address social justice and racial equality. Catlett’s art speaks volumes about the struggles of her time and continues to inspire. Originally born in Washington DC, and a Howard University graduate, Catlett was a part of the Harlem Renaissance. A visit to this exhibit will not only enrich your understanding of Black artistry but also ignite conversations about activism and representation.
When: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
Admission: Free
Celebrate at the Home Rule Music Festival: ‘Back to Our Roots’
Mark your calendars for June 21 because the Home Rule Music Festival is back! This annual celebration of D.C.’s rich music and cultural scene promises a day filled with exhilarating performances across multiple genres. The notion of the festival’s title comes from the Home Rule act of 1973 that refers back to DC’s fight to maintain authority over its own budget. The District of Columbia continues to have no voting representation in Congress. The festival takes place as a reminder of this act and takes place at the Parks at Walter Reed. So, gather your friends for a full day of music, food, commemoration and community. This year’s artists include: The Backyard Band, with its body moving go go beats; Jazzy vocalist Imani Grace-Cooper; West African Drumming Farafina Kan Ensemble; a music producer workshop with Joantz and more. It’s another joyful way to celebrate Black Music month during Juneteenth weekend while supporting local artists.
When: June 21, 2025
Where: The Parks at Walter Reed, 1010 Butternut Street NW, Washington, D.C.
Tickets: visit: homerulefestival.com
Join the R&B Bar Crawl Juneteenth Weekend
For those looking to celebrate with an emphasis on night life, the R&B Bar Crawl takes place after Juneteenth on the weekend. This lively event will take you through some of D.C.’s hottest nightlife spots, featuring R&B music and a chance to connect with party people. Sip cocktails, dance, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the city—it’s the ultimate way to celebrate freedom and joy!
When: June 21, 2025, starting at 2 p.m.
Where: Various locations in Washington, DC
Tickets: https://rnbbbarcrawljuneteenth6-21-25.eventbrite.com
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Catch Kendrick Lamar and SZA on tour
Don’t miss the Grand National Tour featuring Kendrick Lamar and SZA on June 18, 2025, at Northwest Stadium in Landover, MD. This concert is sure to be a show-stopping experience, celebrating Black artistry through powerful performances. Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” won five Grammy Awards at the 67th Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year. The song also won for Best Rap Performance, Best Rap Song, and Best Music Video. The symbolic references in the song serve not only as a diss track but also as a statement about individuals who genuinely uphold the morals of Black culture. This makes it an ideal precursor to the Juneteenth festivities, celebrating the profound influence of Black culture in music.
When: June 18, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Where: Northwest Stadium, Landover, Md.
Tickets: online
Juneteenth is not just a day on the calendar; It’s celebration of freedom, culture, community, and history officially recognized as a federal national holiday June 17, 2021. Whether you’re exploring historical exhibits, immersing yourself in art, enjoying live music, or celebrating with friends, there are countless joyful ways to honor this significant occasion in Washington, D.C. So gather your loved ones and embrace the spirit of Juneteenth.
