Juneteenth on the Peninsula

Juneteenth is now a holiday in Virginia and the Peninsula, deep in African American history, is celebrating.

The holiday commemorates when federal troops freed the last remaining enslaved people in Texas in 1865.

Hampton, Newport News and York County will present celebrations this weekend.

Newport News

Juneteenth Spoken Word

Guests will enjoy performances designed for self-expression by local artists and poets on the ideas of liberty, freedom, equality, and justice. June 16, 7 p.m.-9 p.m. at Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center,

Juneteenth Mime: The Faces of Freedom

Silent movement performers enliven the room through dance and music to tell stories of emancipation. June 17, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., at The Mariners’ Museum

Juneteenth Youth Field Day

Youth ages 6-17 can participate in outdoor sporting games while bringing awareness to the four pillars of commemoration (liberty, freedom, equality, and justice) with a spirit of friendship, unity, and team spirit. June 18, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Riverview Farm Park.

Andrew Shannon FEEDING 5000 Juneteenth celebrates the Juneteenth holiday weekend. Chic A Sea and Jay’s Catering are providing hearty meals to-go, which will be individually packed, for the event. People who attend the event only need to bring their appetite because the meals will be free while supplies last. June 18, noon at New Beech Grove Baptist Church.

Juneteenth Freedom Festival

Free community festival featuring musical entertainment by the Unifics, food and craft vendors, informational exhibits, and children’s activities. June 19, noon-4 p.m. King-Lincoln Park

Hampton

Juneteenth Jazz: The Wave of Freedom Concert with a variety of local jazz musicians. June 18, 6 p.m. Fort Monroe Theatre. Details: 757-637-7778.

Celebrate Healthcare’s Juneteenth Festival

Enjoy community-focused activities including entertainment, health and wellness offerings, a resources fair and other special attractions. June 19, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Darling Stadium

The Hampton Faith Walk Community Juneteenth Celebration

A collective of over 20 churches throughout the city, local leaders and more will be marching from City Hall to Mill Point Park commemorating the holiday. June 19, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Mill Point Park. Details: 757-602-9196.

Hampton African American Heritage Festival Juneteenth Commemoration

Sponsored by Project 1619, the Hampton African American Heritage Festival Juneteenth Commemoration will honor the legacy of Juneteenth and the landing of the first enslaved Africans in English North America. Mill Point Park, $10 for adults; children under 12 are free. June 25, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Details: 757-380-1319.