Kennedy Center to Host Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom, Unity & Gratitude
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
WASHINGTON / June 3, 2026 / BPALiveWire - As America prepares to mark its 250th anniversary and continues its march toward a more perfect union, the Kennedy Center will proudly present a special Juneteenth observance on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. on the Millennium Stage. The free event will honor Juneteenth as a critical milestone in the nation’s journey toward freedom, while celebrating unity, gratitude, and the enduring American spirit.
The evening will feature powerful performances and inspiring messages from acclaimed artists and national leaders. Grammy®-nominated artist Wintley Phipps will deliver soul-stirring renditions of “Amazing Grace” and “God Bless America.” Vernessa Mitchell will perform “Let Freedom Ring” and join a special finale. Dr. Ben Carson will share reflections on Juneteenth history, while Dr. Alveda King will offer a moving segment on pursuing the American Dream.
“Juneteenth reminds us that we are one blood, one human race, called to live together in freedom and unity,” said Dr. Alveda King. “It is a day to celebrate how far we’ve come and recommit ourselves to the principles that make this nation exceptional.”
Additional highlights include the National Anthem led by Dr. Alveda King, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” performed by Miss Eartha Sims, special appearances by the Penn brothers, a string quintet featuring Mrs. Candy Carson, and tributes honoring military veterans, farmers, inventors, educators, and entrepreneurs who embody the American Dream.
The program begins at 5:30 p.m. with instrumental music. Admission is free, though tickets must be reserved in advance. For more information and to secure free tickets, visit kennedy-center.org/whats-on.
This Juneteenth celebration at the Kennedy Center invites all Americans to reflect on the nation’s shared history and come together in gratitude for the blessings of liberty.
