On June 19, 2026, we will commemorate and explore the history, resilience, and culture of Black people in America. We encourage visitors to consider the historical and present-day significance of Juneteenth through interactions with guest speakers and performers as well as Old Sturbridge Village’s costumed educators. Engage in discussions and ask yourself “what can I do to further educate myself?” about the past and how it informs the present day.

Highlights include:

• Attend a performance by gospel choir Anthony Smith and Fully Committed
• Learn about female antislavery societies in New England and about Mary Avery White, a woman from Boylston who recorded these activities in her diary
• View a case exhibit of antislavery writings in the Richardson House
• Learn how African became African American and hear its influence on early American music
• Participate in a reading of Frederick Douglass’ “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?”
• See an anti-slavery petition to congress
• Watch hearth cooking demonstrations of foods that are important to Juneteenth and African American foodways
• Take part in a Kids Freedom Parade
• Join us at the Museum Education building to design a paper quilt inspired by the spirit of Juneteenth, or learn how to sew a simple journal and explore writing prompts inspired by Black writers
• View schedule for Juneteenth (subject to change) https://www.osv.org/daily-schedule/2026-06-19/

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