JLA Celebrates Juneteenth in AACo 2025

Celebrating Juneteenth in Anne Arundel County

June 19th marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas were finally informed of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.  Juneteenth is a time to reflect on our shared history, recognize the enduring fight for justice, and celebrate the strength, culture, and contributions of the Black community.

Ways to Celebrate in Anne Arundel County

1. Join the Annapolis Parade and Festival

  • Juneteenth Parade: Saturday, June 21 at 11:00 a.m. in downtown Annapolis, beginning at Calvert Street and ending at Amos Garrett Boulevard.
  • Juneteenth Festival at Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds:
    • Saturday, June 21 from 2:00 to 10:00 p.m. (including fireworks)
    • Sunday, June 22 from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m.
      Enjoy live music, food trucks, family activities, local vendors, and a vibrant atmosphere.

2. Carr’s Beach Reunion and Concert

On Thursday, June 19 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m., celebrate at Carr’s/Elktonia Heritage Park and the Annapolis Maritime Museum Pavilion with live music by Mousey Thompson’s James Brown Experience, food trucks, and community festivities.

3. Explore Events at Your Local Library (AACPL)

Leading up to Juneteenth, the Anne Arundel County Public Library is offering free events for all ages:

  • Juneteenth Jubilee at Deale Library
    Tuesday, June 17 from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.
    Stories, music, crafts, and snacks to celebrate freedom and community.
  • Juneteenth Movie Screening at Brooklyn Park Library
    Tuesday, June 17 at 5:30 p.m.
    A screening of The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman, a moving film that spans generations of Black history.
  • Juneteenth Trivia Night at Glen Burnie Library
    Wednesday, June 18 at 6:00 p.m.
    Test your knowledge of Juneteenth and Black history in a fun, interactive setting.

Please note: All AACPL branches will be closed on Thursday, June 19 in observance of the holiday.

4. Reflect, Learn, and Connect

Take time to visit sites of African American history in Anne Arundel County, such as the Freetown Rosenwald School in Glen Burnie. Enjoy a peaceful walk through Quiet Waters Park or join in local community service efforts. Supporting Black-owned businesses and artists is another powerful way to honor the holiday.

Anne Arundel County offers a variety of opportunities to celebrate Juneteenth—whether you’re looking for family fun, live entertainment, educational programs, or time for reflection. However you choose to participate, may this week deepen your connection to the spirit of freedom, resilience, and unity.

 

Download this schedule of events for easy reference:

 

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About the Junior League of Annapolis:
Junior League of Annapolis, Inc. is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. It reaches out to all women of any race, religion, or national origin who demonstrate an interest in and a commitment to voluntarism.https://www.jlannapolis.org