Front Royal to Celebrate Juneteenth with Full Day of Music, Culture, and Community Unity

Juneteenth will take center stage at the Front Royal gazebo on Thursday, June 19, as the community gathers for a powerful day of remembrance, celebration, and unity. Organized by the local Juneteenth Committee in partnership with the NAACP, this second annual event will run from noon to 7 p.m. and is open to the public—completely free of charge.

The Juneteenth holiday, officially recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, marks the end of slavery in the United States. Although President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, it was not until June 19, 1865, that enslaved people in Texas learned of their freedom—more than two years later. That moment sparked what would become one of the longest-running African American celebrations in the country.

Locally, organizers aim to both honor that history and uplift the community through a day packed with live entertainment, food, culture, and education.

Gene Kilby, President of the NAACP, will help lead the event alongside Vice President Mike Fletcher and committee member Dave Rushton, who has coordinated the growing list of vendors. They expect an even larger crowd than last year’s estimated 800 attendees.

“This is a celebration for everyone,” said organizers during a recent Royal Examiner interview. “It’s not just about remembering the past—it’s about bringing people together to celebrate progress and unity.”

Festivities will begin with music at 11:30 a.m., followed by official opening remarks at noon led by Master of Ceremonies Dr. Otis Wilson. Brevetta Jordan will deliver the opening prayer.

Throughout the day, visitors will enjoy a steady lineup of performances, including gospel choirs, local musical artists like Meisha Herron and Lisa Peacemaker, and the return of crowd favorites such as The Spiritual Harmonizers. Headlining the evening is the go-go band Special Collective Measures, delivering energetic, danceable rhythms rooted in Washington, D.C.’s iconic music scene.

Roman’s Hair will also present a unique hair and fashion show featuring styles from the 1950s through the 1990s. Historical and cultural presentations will enrich the day, including a powerful reenactment of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s I Have a Dream speech by Cecil Taylor, poetry readings by Gina Salmon, and performances by the Winchester-based Wellness Praise Dancers.

The event will also pay tribute to individuals and groups who contributed to the desegregation of local schools, including a special recognition of Anne Baltimore, the only graduate in her class during a critical time in Warren County’s integration history.

Beyond the stage, more than a dozen vendors and local organizations will set up booths offering food, crafts, information, and resources for residents. Raffle prizes and community networking opportunities will also add to the festive spirit.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, fans, and good energy for what promises to be a day filled with meaningful celebration and lively entertainment.

“We say bring your lawn chair, bring your fans, and bring your community spirit,” said Kilby. “Juneteenth is a day to remember, but also a day to celebrate how far we’ve come together.”

For more information or to get involved, contact Gene Kilby at genekilby@gmail.com or 240-604-9432. Let’s come together to celebrate freedom, unity, and community spirit!