On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers landed in Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that all slaves were free. This was 2 ½ years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation that became official on January 1, 1863. Since that time, African Americans have celebrated with food, fellowship, prayer, and reassurance.

Juneteenth not only celebrates the freedom of African Americans from slavery, but it's also a time to reflect on the history and the progress that has been made and to encourage continuous self-development. Here's what National Harbor has going on to celebrate and honor Juneteenth.

Juneteenth Book Celebration

Join us on June 18th for a special day of meet & greet book signings with three nationally recognized authors as we celebrate community, family & friends during the Juneteenth weekend.

MahoganyBooks

1:00 pm - Author, NBA star, and poet, Etan Thomas signs his collection of books including his latest, Police Brutality and White Supremacy: The Fight Against American Traditions.

3:00 pm - White House Correspondent, Entrepreneur, and author, April Ryan signs her new candle line, JARE Candles along with her best selling books including At Mama's Knee.

5:00 pm - New York Times bestselling author, Dhonielle Clayton signs her collection of books including The Marvellers, The Belles Series, and Shattered Midnight.

This event is free and open to the public

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