The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) celebrates the Juneteenth holiday early with a special Community Day and “A Seat at the Table” evening program Saturday, June 15. The public is invited to join the museum’s Juneteenth celebration – during the entire month of June – and embrace the rich history of Freedom Day each week.

“Juneteenth is a time to celebrate freedom – both its promise and the enduring legacy of those who valiantly sought to realize it,” said Kevin Young, NMAAHC’s director. “As we look to this form of living history, this now-federal holiday reminds us of the joy and struggle of the past as well as the possibilities of the future.” 

The public is invited to learn more about the history and legacy of Juneteenth, download a free digital toolkit and check out the museum’s Juneteenth reading list and other resources.

Juneteenth Community Day Celebration

Saturday, June 15; 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Visitors can join the museum for its Juneteenth Community Day, themed “Freedom, Movement, and Migration,” Saturday, June 15. This special day is designed to engage people of all ages in a meaningful celebration of freedom and cultural evolution, commemorating Juneteenth’s significance in the journey toward equality and recognition in American history. The museum will celebrate Juneteenth early with a day filled with educational, cultural and dynamic programs that enrich understanding and honor the legacy of freedom, movement and migration. Juneteenth Community Day promises an unforgettable experience, blending history, culture and celebration.

Full schedule for Saturday, June 15:

Juneteenth Storytime

11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Visitors can delight their little ones with engaging story sessions and introduce them to diverse perspectives, fostering a love for reading. The museum will feature Tami Charles reading her latest book, We Are Here. 

Crafts of Juneteenth

12 p.m.–2 p.m.
Participants can design their own Juneteenth flag and create art based on the life and works of artist, veteran and fish pepper seed enthusiast, Horace Pippin. All ages are welcome. 

Presenting the Buffalo Soldiers

11 a.m.–1 p.m.; 2 p.m.–4 p.m.

Visitors can learn about the 19th- and 20th-century all-Black regiments’ pivotal role in supporting the nation’s westward expansion, presented by representatives from the U.S. Forest Service and the Buffalo Soldiers, Greater Washington DC Chapter, 9th and 10th Cavalry Association. 

Juneteenth Chef’s Table and Book Signing
12 p.m.–2 p.m.

A special plant-based menu will be curated by renowned vegan chef and food activist Bryant Terry at the museum’s Sweet Home Café. Books by Terry, such as Afro-Vegan, Vegetable Kingdom and Black Food, will be signed by him and available for purchase. 

Mixology of Juneteenth

12 p.m.–2 p.m.
Participants can join the Sweet Home Café for an exciting mocktail workshop. Denise Jones, the café’s general manager, will demonstrate how to make traditional Juneteenth mocktails, including hibiscus “Red Drink,” mint lemonade and other delicious drinks using fresh ingredients from NMAAHC’s Pippin Garden.

Juneteenth Soundstage
3 p.m.
Visitors can experience soul-stirring live jazz performances by Alphonso Horne and the Gotham. Kings in Heritage Hall. They can dive into the evolution of jazz, celebrating its diverse regional styles and role as a symbol of movement, migration and resilience.