With Juneteenth weekend in full effect, and the DMV buzzing with celebrations that honor freedom, culture, and creativity, there’s loads to do around the area this weekend.
From historic parades and vibrant festivals, to health screenings, honey tastings, and poetry gatherings, there’s loads to do to make your weekend fun and meaningful.
To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar!
Thursday, June 19
10 a.m. – Midnight | Free
Penn-Branch Shopping Center, 3202 Pennsylvania Avenue SE
Marching through the streets of Ward 7, Washington, D.C., will host what organizers recognize as D.C.’s first official Juneteenth parade.
The celebration will feature live music, other performances, educational exhibits, a kids’ zone, and something that’s hard for many to resist: free food.
Come out to support and experience a historic moment in D.C.’s ongoing march toward greater freedom.
Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival Family Carnival
11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | $5
Cabin John Regional Park, 7400 Tuckerman Lane Bethesda, MD 20817
Celebrate Juneteenth with a full day of fun at the Family Carnival, a highlight of the Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival.
Enjoy live performances, a festive parade, carnival rides, games, crafts, great food, and more, perfect for all ages.
It’s a vibrant celebration of community, culture, and family fun.
Friday, June 20
Health Screenings and Educational Resources
9 a.m. – 11 a.m. | Free
Berwyn Heights Community Center, 6600 Kenilworth Avenue Riverdale, MD 20737
Prioritize your health with a free screening from Luminis Health, open to adults 18 and older.
Get same-day results for blood pressure, glucose, A1C, and cholesterol levels. Based on results, tested guests receive helpful health education and resources.
Pre-registration does not guarantee a screening; services will be offered as time and resources allow.
3 p.m. | Free
U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 2001
Fun fact: The ancient Egyptians once believed bees to be sacred, created from the tears of the sun god Ra. Now, the whole family can check out the beauty of the critical flying insect at Children’s Garden to celebrate National Pollinator Week and explore the fascinating world of bees.
While sampling various honeys, discover: how flowers attract bees, how bees make honey, and how the nectar the bees collect influences the flavor of honey.
Attendees will also learn about the life cycle and behavior of bees and their essential role in keeping ecosystems healthy and thriving.
Saturday, June 21
1 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Free
The Parks Historic Walter Reed, 1010 Butternut Street NW Washington, D.C. 20012
Celebrate D.C.’s rich cultural legacy at the 2025 Home Rule Music Festival at The Parks at Walter Reed.
This free, family-friendly event features live performances from local artists such as the legendary Backyard Band, New Impressionz, and a soulful Roberta Flack tribute by Imani-Grace Cooper.
Enjoy Afro-funk jazz from the celebrated Plunky & Oneness of JuJu and high-energy West African drumming and dance from Farafina Kan.
With local food vendors, a craft and culture market, and a strong sense of community, the day is guaranteed to offer a celebration of music and culture.
10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Free
R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center, 2730 Martin Luther King Jr Avenue SE, Washington, D.C. 20032
Meet local lenders, real estate professionals, and fellow community members while discovering D.C. programs that support homeownership, credit improvement, and more. This event offers a full day of useful information and resources to help guide you on your path to buying a home.
Sunday, June 22
4 p.m. – 6 p.m. | $12.51
Station 3510, 3510 Rhode Island Ave Mt. Rainier, MD 20712
Let feelings flow at this open mic, an event welcome to poets at any stage in their journey.
Set in an intimate space filled with local art, the night invites spoken word, storytelling, and heartfelt expression.
In addition to performances, enjoy complimentary wine, That Sawce Catering food, and evening raffle prizes.
This month’s featured performers are D.C. natives Brandon Douglas and Jenari.
Celebrate Juneteenth, the summer solstice, and Pride through the shared power of poetry and community.
3 p.m. – 5 p.m. | $18.92
Bryant St Market, 670 Rhode Island Avenue NE Washington, D.C. 20002
Join the celebration of Pride Month with a fun, pet-friendly event packed with activities for furry friends and pup-parents alike.
During the event, browse goods from LGBT+ owned vendors, enjoy a festive pet parade, and take home giveaways and raffle prizes.
Guests can also contribute to an animal rescue supply drive and treat their furry companions to pup cups and affection.
The event runs indoors, with the parade starting at 4:30 p.m.
The space is wheelchair-accessible, and accommodations are available upon request.
For updates, check out @dmvgaydogmoms on Instagram.