The Hampton Juneteenth Pageant is more than glitz, glam and Juneteenth history; the contestants will not only display their outer beauty but will also reveal their internal struggles with a mixture of song, spoken word, laughter and tears.

Written and directed by Hampton playwright, Marie St. Clair, this moving, often humorous and most memorable experience illuminates the origins and meaning of Juneteenth.  Attendees will laugh, may cry, and will leave enlightened to the true meaning of Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day.”

Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. It is celebrated on the anniversary of the order, issued by Major General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865, proclaiming freedom for slaves in Texas. Originating in Galveston, Juneteenth has since been observed annually in various parts of the United States, often broadly celebrating African-American culture. The day was first recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act.

Presented by the Hampton History Museum and sponsored by The Fort Monroe Authority. For more information visit www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org or call the Northampton Community Center at 757-825-4805.