Celebrating Freedom

Freedom, Family, And Festival: Prince George’s County Honors The Legacy Of Juneteenth

On a warm Saturday afternoon, the rolling greens of Watkins Regional Park will transform into a vibrant tapestry of music, history, and cultural pride as the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County hosts its 2025 Juneteenth Festival. Scheduled for June 14 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., the free, family-friendly celebration honors the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and the enduring spirit of resilience in the Black community.

Though Juneteenth was only declared a federal holiday in 2021, it has long held sacred meaning in African American communities across the country. The holiday commemorates June 19, 1865—the day Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that the Civil War had ended and all enslaved people were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed.

For Prince George’s County, which boasts one of the most affluent and culturally vibrant Black populations in the United States, Juneteenth is more than history—it’s heritage.

“We’ve been celebrating Juneteenth for 20 years,” said Dr. Dennis Doster, director of the Black History Program for the Department. “This festival is about joy, remembrance, and community. It’s a chance to honor our ancestors, showcase Black excellence, and connect through shared history.”

This year’s celebration promises to be the biggest yet. Festivalgoers can expect a rich program of live entertainment featuring 1990s R&B icon CeCe Peniston, D.C.’s legendary go-go group Junkyard Band, the soulful Brencore All Stars, and local favorites Soul Messengerz. The music will be paired with art and history activities, children’s programming, interactive exhibits, and rows of vendors offering African-inspired crafts, food, and fashion.

While the festive sounds of music and the aromas of traditional soul food will fill the air, the deeper purpose of the event is never far from mind. The Department of Parks and Recreation has long used the festival as both a celebration and a platform for education. Through history exhibits and guided conversations, attendees can learn about the struggles and triumphs of African Americans, from enslavement and emancipation to civil rights and modern movements.

This year, special attention will be given to showcasing the local history of African Americans in Prince George’s County. Archival displays and oral history sessions will highlight the stories of Black farmers, educators, and activists who helped shape the county's identity.

Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets to enjoy the day comfortably, and there will be plenty to do for all ages. Children can participate in art activities and storytelling sessions designed to make history accessible and engaging. Community organizations will also be on-site, offering resources on education, health, and civic engagement.

“The spirit of Juneteenth is one of liberation and community,” said Doster. “As much as it is a celebration of the past, it’s also a call to action for the future—a reminder of the work that still lies ahead to achieve true equity and justice.”

For many Prince Georgians, the Juneteenth Festival is an annual tradition, a chance to reconnect with neighbors, share cultural pride, and reflect on how far the country has come—and how far it still has to go.

As the sun sets over Watkins Regional Park, what will remain is more than just the echoes of music and the scent of barbecue. What endures is the legacy of a people who, even in the face of oppression, chose joy, resilience, and remembrance.