Filtering by: American History
Isaac Julien: Lessons of the Hour – Frederick Douglass
May
5
to Nov 26

Isaac Julien: Lessons of the Hour – Frederick Douglass

  • National Portrait Gallery (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Exhibit through November 26, 2026

The first joint acquisition of the National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum (the two share a building) is Sir Isaac Julien’s fascinating moving image installation, which blends period reenactments across five screens to give the viewer insight into the life, accomplishments, activism, and brilliance of Frederick Douglass (1818-1895).

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The 1856 Project: Underground Railroad Activity on the Washington Baltimore Turnpike
Apr
2
12:00 PM12:00

The 1856 Project: Underground Railroad Activity on the Washington Baltimore Turnpike

Historian Dr. Douglas R. McElrath of the University of Maryland will discuss The 1856 Project, a massive undertaking of the Universities Studying Slavery. Dr. McElrath will discuss the Underground Railroad activity that took place on the Washington Baltimore Turnpike.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Walk-ins welcome. Guests may bring a bag lunch.

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Every Painting a Story
Apr
2
10:30 AM10:30

Every Painting a Story

  • Darnall's Chance House Museum (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Take an art appreciation class where students are introduced to famous paintings created by 18th and 19th century American artists. Students will observe, reflect, and use critical thinking to determine the meaning behind various works of art. Students will complete a sketch to create a story of their own. 

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The Legacy of Harriet Tubman: A Performance by Cortenia Smith
Feb
26
6:00 PM18:00

The Legacy of Harriet Tubman: A Performance by Cortenia Smith

Step into the remarkable life of Harriet Tubman with this one-woman show featuring Cortenia Smith. Known for leading enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad, Tubman’s legacy also includes her work as a spy during the Civil War and as a suffragist, tireless in her advocacy for justice and equality. This performance brings to life her strength, determination, and commitment to freedom.

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"The Bell Affair: A Film" with historian Dr. Will Thomas
Jan
24
7:00 PM19:00

"The Bell Affair: A Film" with historian Dr. Will Thomas

Join us for a screening of “The Bell Affair” written by William G. Thomas, III and Kwakiutl Lynn Dreher. The film tells the story of Daniel and Mary Bell who sued for their freedom and then lead one of the largest escape attempts in American history. Following the screening, Dr. Thomas will be available to answer questions.

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Where We Meet
Aug
10
to Aug 15

Where We Meet

  • The Phillips Collection (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

IMAGE: Lois Mailou Jones, Jennie, 1943, Oil on canvas, 36 × 28 1/2 in., Howard University Gallery of Art

Exhibit through August 15, 2024; Tue-Sun, 10am-5pm

Where We Meet brings works from the collections of the Howard University Gallery of Art and The Phillips Collection into conversation. The selections reflect a continuum of artistic dialogue between two storied Washington, DC, institutions that have endured for almost a century. 

Featured in this installation are works by artists acquired early in the life of both institutions, including Howard University professors Loïs Mailou Jones and James Lesesne Wells, as well as works by seminal artists from each collection. This presentation reflects the overlapping histories of the Phillips and Howard, revealing an early and evolving relationship developed through a common interest in collecting, stewardship, and providing access to art.
Hours & Admission

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Juneteenth Celebration Parade & Festival
Jun
22
12:00 PM12:00

Juneteenth Celebration Parade & Festival

  • Festival - Bates Athletic Complex (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Parade: 12 pm - 1:30 pm at Annapolis City Dock@ The Alex Haley Memorial Statue. Click here for more information on Parade. Festival: 2 pm-9 pm @ Bates Athletic Complex.

Come out and join us for our FREE annual parade and festival at the Bates Athletic Complex. There will be one main stage, featuring headliners Beverly Crawford, Le’Andria Johnson, Vivian Green, Rakim the Rapper, Be’La Dona Band, and a host of local talent! Fireworks will immediately follow the show!

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Jazz in the Garden: Muneer Nasser Quintet - A Juneteenth Jazz Celebration
Jun
21
to Jun 22

Jazz in the Garden: Muneer Nasser Quintet - A Juneteenth Jazz Celebration

  • National Mall, National Gallery of Art, Sculpture Garden (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Jazz in the Garden Series: May 31 - August 9, 2024 on Fridays, 6-8:30pm

Muneer Nasser Quintet, photo by Leah Byndon

Enjoy a Juneteenth celebration concert with the Muneer Nasser Quintet, whose distinct brand of jazz is a synthesis of Memphis blues with a dash of New York fire and DC flavor. The Quintet’s line-up includes trumpeter Muneer Nasser, pianist Allyn Johnson, saxophonist Elijah Easton, bassist James King, Jr., and drummer John Lamkin III. This all-star cast of musicians recently released the jazz album A Soldier's Story, dedicated to Muneer’s father, bassist and jazz great Jamil Nasser.

How to get Jazz in the Garden tickets.

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Juneteenth Celebration Concert: Cha Wa
Jun
20
8:00 PM20:00

Juneteenth Celebration Concert: Cha Wa

  • Library of Congress - Thomas Jefferson Building - Coolidge Auditorium (LJG45A) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Get ready to immerse yourself in the infectious rhythms and vibrant energy of two-time Grammy-nominated Cha Wa, a musical force guaranteed to make you move and groove. This performance promises an unforgettable fusion of New Orleans brass band traditions, Black Masking Indian culture, and contemporary funk that will have you dancing at your seat from start to finish.   

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Juneteenth Freedom Celebration
Jun
19
10:00 AM10:00

Juneteenth Freedom Celebration

Join us for a day-long celebration as we gather with family, friends, and neighbors to honor the present and reflect on shared traditions and history.

Be sure to visit the gallery for our latest exhibition A Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Arts Education in Washington, D.C., 1900-2000, which traces the story of the teachers and students who made Washington, DC a truly unparalleled center for Black arts education.

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Juneteenth 2024
Jun
15
12:00 PM12:00

Juneteenth 2024

Join us at Watkins Regional Park for a day filled with creativity and inspiration. Explore a variety of artworks from talented local artists, ranging from paintings to jewelry, photographs, and everything in between. Immerse yourself in the vibrant art market while enjoying live music. Grab tasty food and treats, some beer and wine, while connecting with your community!

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, this festival has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this exciting event!

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Bowie's 3rd Annual Juneteenth Festival
Jun
15
11:00 AM11:00

Bowie's 3rd Annual Juneteenth Festival

The festival is open to all ages and will have several Activity Areas:

  • Kid Zone: Free inflatables, rides, and sports clinics for kids.

  • College and D9 Greek Row: Showcasing HBCUs and Black Alumni Associations to promote colleges and  if possible, offer onsite acceptance. D9 organizations will promote their respective organizations and chapter activities.  There will be a unity step show on stage.

  • Marketplace and Info: Vendors will sell their goods and services, non-profit organizations will promote their services.

  • Food Vendors: There will be two zones dedicated to local food and concession vendors.

  • Amphitheater: Live entertainment.

  • Artist’s Ave: Local artists will showcase their curated work for viewing and purchase.

  • Physical and Mental Health:  This area is dedicated to groups focusing on physical and mental health services and will include demos.

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Juneteenth Marathon
Jun
15
5:00 AM05:00

Juneteenth Marathon

Join us for the 5th Annual Juneteenth Half Marathon & 10K

The Juneteenth Half Marathon & 10K runs along the entirety of the Civil War Defenses of Washington Trail (see map inset). Definitely one of Washington, DC’s hidden gems, this beautiful off-road trail traverses between the Anacostia and Deanwood neighborhoods of the District, connecting five Civil War fort sites throughout. Race participants should be cautioned, that this is a proper trail run (i.e. dirt, elevation & not for the faint of heart).

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Lift Every Voice: A Letter to the Editor
Feb
7
10:15 AM10:15

Lift Every Voice: A Letter to the Editor

  • The Bowie Center for the Performing Arts (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Performances: Feb 6 & Feb 7 @10:15 am & 12pm

This play with music offers a pathway to understanding and compassion for young learners. Historical touchstones include the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the Little Rock Nine, the Greensboro sit-ins, and the Civil Rights Movement.

For students in grades 4-8.

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Excerpts from "Freedom Riders"
Feb
24
7:00 PM19:00

Excerpts from "Freedom Riders"

  • Virtual - New York Theatre Barn (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
freedomriders.jpg

New York Theatre Barn will host a free live stream of excerpts from the civil rights-themed musical Freedom Riders, in honor of the individuals who challenged the American South status quo when buses were segregated. The digital event will stream on NYTB’s YouTube February 24 at 7 PM ET.

The presentation will also include a conversation with the writers Richard Allen and Taran Gray and a special appearance by one of the last surviving Freedom Riders: Charles Person.

READ: How the Real-Life Freedom Riders Inspired a New Musical

The performance will feature Jennifer Sun Bell, Kevin "Blax" Burroughs, Anthony Chatmon II, Tyla Collier, Meagan Flint, Deon’te Goodman, Payson Lewis, Eboni Muse, Michael William Nigro, Ebony Pollum, Leonard Patton, Scott Redmond, Nygel Robinson, Clayton Snyder, Erin Vanderhyde, Brynn Williams, and Davon Williams.

WATCH: Broadway Alums Anthony Chatmon and Brynn Williams Sing 'You Are the Wind' From Freedom Riders

Freedom Riders has been developed with Barn Stage Company, New York Musical Festival and The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. A previous showcase at NYMF welcomed the late Congressman John Lewis, who serves as one of the main inspirations for the musical.

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Historically Speaking: Thurgood Marshall--A Conversation Between Spencer Crew And Juan Williams
Feb
10
7:00 PM19:00

Historically Speaking: Thurgood Marshall--A Conversation Between Spencer Crew And Juan Williams

  • National Museum of African American History and Culture (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
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Acclaimed historian, and NMAAHC interim director, Dr. Spencer R. Crew will be interviewed by Juan Williams, co-host of FOX News Channel's The Five, about his recently published biography of America's first black supreme court justice. Entitled Thurgood Marshall: A Life in a American History, the book chronicles Marshall's legendary career as a civil rights litigator and founder of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. Book sale and signing courtesy of Smithsonian Enterprises.

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Black History Month 2020 Genealogy Conference
Feb
8
8:30 AM08:30

Black History Month 2020 Genealogy Conference

  • Family History Center Laurel (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
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Snow Date: Feb 15, 2020

Theme: "We've Come This Far In Our Genealogy By Faith"

Keynote Speaker - C. R. Gibbs, Author and Lecturer

A Free Conference Hosted by: African-American Special Interest Group; Washington DC Family History Center - Branch of the FamilySearch Library; The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints;
Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc.; State of Maryland & Washington, DC Chapters; Central Maryland; Prince George's County, Maryland; Montgomery County, Maryland
Agnes Kane Callum - Baltimore, Maryland; James Dent Walker - District of Columbia

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Engineering STEM Day
Jan
22
11:00 AM11:00

Engineering STEM Day

  • African American History and Culture Museum (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
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To help celebrate National Engineering Week, NMAAHC will highlight the long lineage of African American engineers. From the earliest people of African descent using their knowledge of rice cultivation to the newest generation of technology prodigies and inventors, the contributions of African Americans to the nation’s prosperity, history and culture are significant. This program will introduce our visitors to the world of engineering and share how African Americans have shaped and influenced the world.

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City of Bowie Martin Luther King, Jr. Program
Jan
18
10:00 AM10:00

City of Bowie Martin Luther King, Jr. Program

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The City's MLK Program is organized by the Diversity Committee and is centered around the students who are finalists in the City's MLK Art Contest. Each of the student finalists will be recognized during the short program and at the end of the event, the contest winners will be announced. ** Please Note: There is a chance of snow on Saturday. If Prince George's County Schools cancel Saturday activities, then this event will be canceled.

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George Washington Carver and Friends
Feb
21
10:15 PM22:15

George Washington Carver and Friends

Courtesy of the Tuskegee Institute, Alabama; photograph, P.H. Polk

Courtesy of the Tuskegee Institute, Alabama; photograph, P.H. Polk

Performances: 10:15am and 12pm.

George Washington Carver and Friends gives students a fast-paced and accessible introduction to many influential black Americans who have shaped our nation over the last 150 years. The lives and accomplishments of Booker T. Washington, Jackie Robinson, Thurgood Marshall, Madame C.J. Walker, and other famous leaders are brought to life in this empowering production. 

Curriculum Connections: Black History, History and Social Studies, STEM 

Ages: Recommended for grades Pre-K through 5th

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North By Night: More Heroes of the Underground Railroad
Feb
6
10:30 AM10:30

North By Night: More Heroes of the Underground Railroad

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Kids’ Day Out

Follow the journey of brave men and women who risked it all to travel north and help others escape the terrors of slavery. Meet people with familiar names and many more who have gone largely unnoticed by history - until now! This show features William Still, Sojourner Truth, William Lloyd Garrison, and others. 

Ages: all ages welcome

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