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Join us for an unforgettable weekend in Gettysburg, PA as we come together to honor our shared history, celebrate Black resilience, and recognize the ongoing fight for justice. Juneteenth marks the moment when the last enslaved people in the United States were informed of their freedom, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. But Juneteenth is more than a date; it’s a reminder that the journey toward equality continues, and we all play a role in shaping that future.
Our Juneteenth commemoration in Gettysburg will feature educational programs, performances, and community engagement that highlight the importance of Juneteenth and the significance of Black history in shaping the country. Together, we will amplify Black voices, honor those who came before us, and reflect on the struggles still faced today.
All events are free and open to the public, come as you are and bring a friend.
CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER
Lincoln Cemetery
2:30PM – 7:00PM
Lincoln Cemetery commemorates Juneteenth in 2025 by hosting a series of tours of Gettysburg’s only surviving Black cemetery, the final resting place of more than 450 citizens of Gettysburg and Adams County. The purpose of these Lincoln Cemetery activities is to spotlight Juneteenth during its national holiday, bring attention to Gettysburg’s Black history, and honor veterans buried there. Along with the tours, the Lincoln Cemetery event also includes a short public/media event to announce enhancements to the Gettysburg Adams County Black History Trail in which the cemetery is featured. Finally, the events culminate with a live rendition of the famous 24-note call, Taps, presented by the Lincoln Fellowship of Pennsylvania.
Event Schedule:
Guided Cemetery Tours starting on the half hour from 2:30PM – 5:30PM
Commemorative Ceremony will begin at 5:45PM
Seminary Ridge Museum
11:45AM – 4:00PM
Through expert-led educational programs, we will explore Gettysburg’s significant role in the broader struggle for liberty and the lasting impact of these stories on contemporary society. These sessions aim to offer a deeper understanding of how the legacies of Black Americans have shaped, and continue to shape, the fight for justice and equality across generations.
Following the programs, join us for a walking tour of the historic area, exploring how Gettysburg’s legacy is intertwined with freedom and ongoing justice movements. The walking tour not only emphasizes the historical aspects but also connects attendees to the living legacy of those who fought for justice, providing a tangible connection to history that inspires action.
Event Schedule:
11:45AM – Opening Remarks by Mayor Rita Frealing
12:00PM – Dr. Teresa Smallwood, “The Hope of Glory”
1:00PM – Dr. Nelson Strobert, “L’homme Engagé (the Engaged Man)”
2:00PM – Ross Hetrick as Thaddeus Stevens
3:00PM – Closing Remarks by Christine Campbell
3:15PM – Codie Eash, “Black History on Seminary Ridge” Walking Tour
To further honor the spirit of Juneteenth, there will be a special program at the Christ Lutheran Church beginning at 7:00 PM. The church will host a moving performance on emancipation, deepening the collective understanding of this pivotal moment in American history.
Majestic Theatre
3:00PM – 8:00PM
On Sunday, the spotlight turns to Black entrepreneurship, culture, and community. The Majestic Theatre will come alive with powerful performances, soulful music, and community connection.
Come early to support local Black-owned businesses and food trucks. The evening begins with powerful opening words and performances by local artists Monisola Paige and Sydney Moon.
The night crescendos with a performance by a celebrated jazz and blues artist, Antoinette Montague, in New York’s music scene and protégé of legends like Carrie Smith and Etta Jones.
Antoinette Montague doesn’t perform concerts, she creates experiences. Based in Newark, NJ, Montague’s work as an artist, entertainer, and educator have earned her accolades throughout the New York Metro area, and beyond. Joined by a band of stellar musicians, and charismatic tap dancer, AC Lincoln, she will have the audience on their feet in a soulful celebration of Emancipation befitting the whole family and the entire community.
For a town like Gettysburg, this is more than a concert—it’s a moment.
Ticket Required
You can reserve your FREE ticket in advance at the link below, and we’ll also have volunteers on-site to assist anyone who needs to get a ticket when they arrive.
https://gettysburgmajestic.showare.com/ordertickets.asp?p=1489&src=eventperformances
Juneteenth encourages us to examine our own roles within this narrative. We are all part of a larger story, one that requires ongoing commitment and engagement. As we celebrate Black history, we also recognize the importance of allyship in the fight for social justice, understanding that our collective efforts are vital to achieving meaningful change.
As we reflect on Juneteenth and its significance, we invite you to engage in dialogue, share your stories, and participate fully in the events planned for the weekend. Let us come together to learn, celebrate, and forge a path toward a brighter future.
This event is made possible thanks to the generous support of our community partners and donors:
Adams County Community Foundation
All Textures by Rhonda Hair Studio
Chad-Alan Carr
Charles Sawicki
Community Foundation President’s Fund
Dobbin House
Gettysburg Pride Inc.
Human Relations Commission
Interfaith Council for Peace & Justice
Janet Riggs
Lisa Grim
Martin Zimmerman
Mediation Services
Menallen Monthly Meetings
Rebecca Wood
STAR Grant – Adams County Arts Council
Thaddeus Stevens Society
The Pub & Restaurant
Tom & Janic Grove
United Lutheran Seminary
Check out our Getaway Guide online or have us send you one. Have an immediate question? Call us at 1.800.337.5015
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