Colonial Williamsburg offers free admission for Juneteenth events

WILLIAMSBURG, Va. (WAVY) — The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation has announced its lineup of events to commemorate Juneteenth.

On June 19, 1865 thousands of enslaved people learned they had been emancipated when Union forces arrived in Galveston, Texas. President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation more than two years earlier.

This years programming will feature Nikki Giovanni, Darryl Reeves and Sheila Arnold. Each of these artist bring unique talents and perspectives and will both entertain and enlighten audiences during the Juneteenth celebration.

“We are honored to host such esteemed artists who will offer visitors a rich and immersive Juneteenth experience,” said Cliff Fleet, Foundation president and CEO. “This programming not only commemorates an important moment in American history but also celebrates the resilience and triumph of the human spirit.”

World-renowned poet Nikki Giovanni will deliver the keynote address at the Juneteenth Sunrise Service on Sunday, June 16, at 6 a.m.

On June 18, Master Blacksmith Darryl Reeves will return to the Public Armory on June 18 and 19 to demonstrate the traditions of New Orleans’ 18th and 19th century African American ironworkers.

Award-winning storyteller and historical interpreter Sheila Arnold will lead a discussion session about Portraying the Ancestors on June 18. Arnold will host Permission to Be Free: A Juneteenth Story on June 19. Both of the sessions will take place at 1 p.m. in the Hennage Auditorium.

To pre-register for complimentary admission in honor of Juneteenth visit colonialwilliamsburg.org/tickets/juneteenth .

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