Monday, June 19 marks Juneteenth: the holiday commemorating the end of slavery. There are a variety of events in Hampton Roads and northeast North Carolina on and around the holiday. Below is a list of events that are open to the public to celebrate the day.
Hampton Road Transit free services
On Juneteenth, Hampton Roads Transit is providing free transportation on its fixed route services (bus, light rail and ferry) and paratransit. HRT says on the holiday, bus and light rail services will operate on its Saturday schedule. The ferry will operate on its normal schedule. For information on HRT routes, click here.
Juneteenth Freedomfest Peninsula
On Sunday, June 18, the second annual Juneteenth Freedomfest Peninsula kicks off. The fest will feature live music, a special worship service, Zumba classes and more. One of the special guest hosts is our very own Kelsey Jones! The event runs from 10 a.m. until 6:30 p.m., and it's free to attend.
The Sounds of Freedom
On Saturday, June 17, Tshombe Selby, a Manteo native and tenor with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, will come to Manteo to perform an outdoor concert called "The Sounds of Freedom." The concert is free to attend and starts at 5 p.m. at the Pea Island Cookhouse Museum.
Juneteenth at the Beach
From June 17 to 19, the LAMBS Foundation is hosting its second annual Juneteenth at the Beach Festival at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. During its three-day run, the festival will feature live entertainment, food, family-friendly activities and more. General admission is free, but the festival is offering a pass that gives attendees a 10% discount on merchandise and VIP passes with extra perks. For ticket and event information, click here.
Suffolk Transit free fare day
Suffolk Transit is joining Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) in celebrating Juneteenth with a free fare day. Passengers using Suffolk Transit will be able to transfer to an HRT bus and continue to travel throughout Hampton Roads for free.
Juneteenth Celebration out of Kempsville High School Museum
On Sunday, June 18, New and refreshed exhibits, along with the unveiling of the original 1937 Princess Anne County Training School property deed, will all be a part of a Juneteenth celebration outside of Renaissance Academy.
This article will be updated periodically with more events and details.
