Juneteenth — the holiday celebrating the end of slavery in Texas and beyond — has become more widely recognized in recent years. Like other places with large Black communities, the DMV (Washington, D.C. Maryland and Virginia) has taken pride in celebrating.

This year there are events throughout the region for Juneteenth weekend — some that are directly honoring those who were previously enslaved centuries ago, and others that just provide the opportunity for a fun outing. Here’s a guide to a handful of those events between Baltimore and D.C.

Maroonteenth Party

June 17, 646 Cherry Hill Road, Baltimore, 6-9 p.m.

Black Yield Institute, a Black-led institution based in Baltimore that addresses food apartheid, is hosting their Maroonteenth party. The goal of Maroonteenth is to not only celebrate the freeing of enslaved people in North America, but also the people before them who freed themselves. Take some pictures in their photo booth while enjoying good drinks and food at the party.

The Baltimore Banner thanks its sponsors. Become one.

Flier for The Fourth Annual Juneteenth celebration at Current Space.
Flier for The Fourth Annual Juneteenth celebration at Current Space. (Handout)

Fourth Annual Juneteenth Skillshare Celebration

June 18, Current Space, 421 N Howard St., Baltimore, 2-9 p.m.

This Fourth Annual Juneteenth Celebration, hosted by Diamon Fisher, will feature activities that include candle making and herbalism workshops, swap donations, performances by soul artists Duendita and Ss.Sylver as well as sets by some of the area’s favorite DJs: DJ Bri Mafia, Styles Bond and DJ Hoeteps. Food trucks and a photo station will also be on site.

Flier for Love is always here featuring Abdu Ali, Ivy Sole, Chiffon, DJ Hoeteps and other special guests.
Flier for Love is always here featuring Abdu Ali, Ivy Sole, Chiffon, DJ Hoeteps and other special guests. (Handout)

Love is Always Here

June 18, Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St., Baltimore, 7:30 p.m.

Love is Always Here will emphasize romantic joy and community in Baltimore. Abdu Ali, the curator of the event, is an Afrofuturist club music artist who will be sure to deliver a memorable performance.

Other acts include Baltimore’s Chiffon and DJ Hoeteps, along with NYC-based singer Ivy Sole. The tranquil night will be highlighted by love songs, so all the lovers should have something to enjoy.

The Baltimore Banner thanks its sponsors. Become one.

Belting Pot

June 18, Ynot Lot, 3 p.m., 4 W. North Ave., Baltimore; and 7 p.m. at North Ave. Market, 30 W. North Ave., Baltimore

Belting Pot is a two-part celebration of R&B music in Baltimore City. The first show will have performances by some of the city’s smoothest vocalists, like Kéja and Akilah Divine, backed by the house DJ, BMOREALIEN. Part two will see Chelsea Monaé and her band performing a live set. Both shows are free.

AFRAM

June 18 and 19, Druid Hill Park, 900 Druid Park Lake Dr., Baltimore, 12-8 p.m.

AFRAM festival is a long-standing local celebration of African American culture. Head to Druid Hill Park where there will be nationally recognized entertainment, local food and more. Performing acts include Ne-Yo, El DeBarge, The O’Jays and more.

Something in the Water

June 17-19, Independence Ave. SW ( between 3rd Street and 9th Street), Washington, D.C.

International music icon and Virginia native Pharrell Williams’ Something in the Water festival — made to unite communities and celebrate diversity — will take place in the district this year after initially being held in Virginia Beach. Williams has recruited some of the biggest artists in the country to perform, including Lil Baby, Snoh Aalegra and Pusha T.