Join us as we commemorate Juneteenth 2026 with a vibrant celebration of freedom, resilience, and culture! This year’s event honors the legacy of emancipation while embracing the power of education, unity, and action in our communities. Through music, art, storytelling, and fellowship, we reflect on the past and empower the future. Our motto, “Educate to Advocate…..then Activate,” guides this experience while encouraging us to learn our history, raise our voices, and create meaningful change. From youth activities to cultural performances, guest speakers to community resources, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and be inspired by. Come together with us in joy, pride, and purpose as we celebrate the spirit of Juneteenth—because freedom didn’t end in 1865, it continues to evolve through awareness, action, and unity!

For more information:  https://naacp.org/campaigns/juneteenth

Memorial Day remembrance at Aquia Episcopal Church.  Wreaths will be laid at the graves of the eight veterans buried there.

Free to the public

Presented by Gretchen Goodell Pendleton of The George Washington Foundation. The Foundation will share its archival digitization project that is beginning in earnest this year, along with the material culture reflected in the primary documents, including the built environment of Kenmore during its construction in the 1770s.

Gretchen Goodell Pendleton is the Aldrich Director of Curatorial Operations at The George Washington Foundation. She has served in curatorial positions at historic sites for over twenty years, including locations such as George Washington’s Mount Vernon and Stratford Hall. In her current role, she oversees the historic collections and exhibitions for Historic Kenmore and George Washington’s Ferry Farm.

With Jeff Joyce.

The first part of Jeff’s presentation is an overview of how the Civil War impacted Culpeper County, including major battles like Cedar Mountain and Brandy Station and the Army of the Potomac winter encampment (1863-64).  The second part discusses the establishment of Culpeper National Cemetery after the war and the stories of several Civil War soldiers buried there.

Jeff Joyce is an Air Force veteran and retired Defense contractor who lives in Manassas.  He is a a volunteer historian at Culpeper National Cemetery, supporting the Wreaths Across America program.  In addition, Jeff is a Docent at the National Air and Space Museum, a volunteer with the Honor Flight Program, a battlefield guide at Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park in Prince William County and a member of the living history team at Manassas National Battlefield.

The Christmas party will be held at the Rowser Building, Room A. The SCHS provides napkins, plates, cutlery, and beverages. Everyone is asked to bring a dish to share.