News Release

Booker T. Washington National Monument to Commemorate 161st Anniversary of Emancipation and Juneteenth

Date: May 26, 2026
Contact: Abbi Smithmyer, [phone] 

Hardy, Va.—Booker T. Washington National Monument will commemorate the 161st anniversary of the emancipation of Booker T. Washington with special anniversary programming, musical performances and activities on June 19-21, 2026.

This commemorative event begins on Friday, June 19, with a series of guided programs and activities that highlight Washington’s enslaved childhood on the Burroughs plantation and the importance of emancipation to Washington and to the nation. 
 
On Saturday, June 20, bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the day-long Celebration of Freedom Gospel Concert, which will begin at 11 a.m. Performers include Michael Boone, Sonny Brown Xperience, The Napper Singers, Perkins & EnVision, Larnell Starkey & The Spiritual Seven Gospel Singers, Pastor Milton Hardy Jr., and the Joy Bells. Food vendors and family-friendly activities will also be available. 
 
The event concludes on Sunday, June 21 with a series of guided programs and presentations that discuss the importance of freedom and honor the life and legacy of Booker T. Washington. 
 
All programs are free and open to the public but may be subject to change. For a detailed schedule of events and additional information, please visit www.nps.gov/bowa or contact Booker T. Washington National Monument at [phone]. 
 
—NPS—  
Booker T. Washington National Monument preserves the plantation where Washington was born into slavery in 1856 and where he and his family lived until their emancipation at the end of the Civil War in 1865. He is known as an educator who guided the Tuskegee Institute, now known as Tuskegee University, as well as an orator, author and leader in the African American community. Learn more at www.nps.gov/bowa.  
 
About the National Park Service: Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at www.nps.gov.