image

Montgomery County, in partnership with local governments and organizations, will host its 28th annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown, featuring live performances, vendors, food, and community programming under the theme “Pushing Back – The Fight for Freedom is Not Over.” The festivities begin with the African American Living Legends Awards Ceremony on June 20, honoring residents over age 75 for their significant contributions to the county, as leaders emphasize the importance of preserving and celebrating African American history and culture.

Per the news release: “Montgomery County, in partnership with the BlackRock Center for the Arts, the City of Gaithersburg, the City of Rockville, and the Montgomery County Office of Human Rights, is excited to announce the 28th Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from noon to 10 p.m at the BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown. This year’s theme, “Pushing Back – The Fight for Freedom is Not Over,” underscores our ongoing commitment to equality and justice, reminding us that the struggle for true freedom continues.

The celebration will kick off on Friday, June 20, 2025, with the 2025 African American Living Legends Awards Ceremony held at the BlackRock Center for the Arts at 7 p.m. County Executive Marc Elrich will lead this special evening, honoring distinguished individuals aged 75 and older who have made significant contributions to the Montgomery County community through their service, advocacy, and dedication. This recognition of remarkable individuals, who embody the spirit of resilience and commitment, will set the tone for the Juneteenth festivities and highlight the importance of honoring our past as we work towards a shared future of equality and justice. More information about the honorees and the ceremony can be found at African American Living Legends Awards.

“Juneteenth is an important day to recognize and celebrate,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “Honoring our African American Living Legends during this celebration is appropriate and fitting. These awards recognize leaders who never asked for recognition. They simply looked for ways to better our community and shape its cultural heritage. I am glad we have this opportunity to celebrate them and their work during Juneteenth. Our County’s Juneteenth events reflect our County’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.”

Juneteenth is co-hosted by Montgomery County and the BlackRock Center for the Arts, a vibrant hub that embodies the spirit of inclusivity and diversity. Located in the heart of Germantown, the most diverse community in the nation, BlackRock has been instrumental in honoring this significant date for the past 27 years. Artistic Director, Kelly Chauncey , who has thoughtfully curated engaging programs for the celebration, says, “We are so honored to once again join forces with Montgomery County for this significant celebration of Juneteenth. This event holds special meaning for our community, especially in light of the incredible diversity that defines Montgomery County and Germantown. Our programming reflects a joyous energy and serves as a call to action, inviting everyone to come together in unity, celebrate our shared history, and embrace the vibrant tapestry of voices that make our community unique.”

This year’s festival promises to be a free, family-friendly event filled with entertainment and community spirit, including:

Live concerts and performances from talented local artists that celebrate African American culture and history.

A bustling artisans market featuring unique handmade goods from local creators, showcasing the richness and creativity of our community.

An array of delicious food options from local vendors, celebrating the diversity of culinary traditions.

Engaging talks and performances that encourage reflection and discussion about the significance of Juneteenth and the ongoing fight for freedom.

Says the DIrector of the Montgomery County Office of Human Rights “The Celebration of Juneteenth is more important this year than maybe any year before….as the history of the African American Community is being erased

From the various milestones and significant events of this country, we must leverage every opportunity we have to ensure the truth and factual history of the African American community remains viable. Juneteenth is such an opportunity for all of our diverse community to reflect, learn and celebrate. Push Back, The Fight for Freedom is not Over”.

Join us in celebrating Juneteenth by connecting with friends and family for an unforgettable day of music, creativity, and unity. Together, let’s honor our past while looking forward to a future where freedom and justice are realized for all.

For more information about the Juneteenth celebration and details about programming, please visit the BlackRock Center for the Arts at BlackRock Center for the Arts Juneteenth. To RSVP for free and be entered for a chance to win tickets to a future BlackRock event click here.