Published on: June 17, 2026 | By admin

BALTIMORE, MD — The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture invites the community to commemorate Juneteenth with a day of reflection, celebration, and cultural engagement on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free thanks to the generous support of Under Armour, with additional support provided by Morgan State University’s College of Interdisciplinary and Continuing Studies, and Walmart.

Presented under the theme “Juneteenth Brings Balance to America’s Celebration of Freedom,” this year’s event reflects on Juneteenth as a powerful moment that helps complete and rebalance the national narrative of freedom. Through history, dialogue, music, art, and community engagement, visitors are invited to explore the ongoing pursuit of freedom and the role each of us plays in shaping a more inclusive future.

“Juneteenth reminds us that freedom is not only a historical milestone but an ongoing pursuit,” said Terri Lee Freeman, President of the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. “As we gather to celebrate, learn, and reflect, we honor those who came before us while inspiring future generations to continue the work of building a more equitable society.”

EVENT DETAILS

 

JUNETEENTH HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Justice and Reconciliation: Film Screening and Panel Discussion
A screening exploring the lives and legacies of Henry Highland Garnet and Harvey Johnson, followed by a discussion with filmmaker Xavier Frink, Rev. Alvin C. Hathaway Sr., Dr. Ida Jones, and Dr. Brian Morrison.

Baltimore Miss Juneteenth Pageant
A cultural scholarship competition celebrating the leadership, talent, and community impact of young Black girls.

Musical and Dance Performances
Featuring a Richard Smallwood Gospel Tribute by members of Vision, DJ NO ID, Trinidad & Tobago Steel Drum Orchestra, The Spence_ START Trio, Bright Moments Jam Session presented by Keystone Korner Baltimore, tap dancer Baakari Wilder, and choreographer TSU Terry.

Artmaking Workshops
Create a Freedom tote bag with Art with a Heart while supplies last.

Living History Reenactments
Meet Maryland abolitionist Frances Ellen Watkins Harper through presentations by FREED: Female RE-Enactors of Distinction.

Resisting Erasure: Civic Engagement, Education, and the Ongoing Work of Freedom
A special Juneteenth reflection on civic engagement, education, and the ongoing pursuit of freedom.

Explore the Museum
Enjoy free access to the Museum’s exhibitions, including the Janet & Walter Sondheim Art Prize Exhibition and Culture From the Sole Up, presented in partnership with DTLR.

Food Vendors
Local food vendors will be on site with food and beverages available for purchase.

Juneteenth at The Lewis offers a unique opportunity for visitors of all ages to celebrate freedom, connect with community, experience art and culture, and engage with the stories that continue to shape Maryland and the nation.

For more information, visit www.lewismuseum.org, follow the @lewismuseum on social media: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn, or contact Crystal Turner | Director of Communications & External Relations at crystal.turner@lewismuseum.org