Community, Culture, and Joy: Highlights from Warrenton’s Juneteenth 2025 Celebration
A Day of Community, Culture, and Celebration: Juneteenth 2025 in Warrenton
Even with clouds in the sky and the occasional sprinkle of rain, the spirit of community shined bright on Main Street in Warrenton this past Saturday as Fauquier County came together for its fifth annual Juneteenth commemoration. The event, themed Community, Unity, and Commitment, brought families, neighbors, and visitors from near and far to honor freedom, history, and culture in a day filled with music, food, and connection.
While this year’s festival saw a slightly smaller turnout than last year’s record-breaking event — with weather forecasts threatening rain throughout the day — those who came out were met with nothing but positive energy, joyful performances, and meaningful moments. The heart of Warrenton was alive with the sound of live music, the laughter of children, and the warmth of community.
A Celebration for Everyone
From the opening notes of the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Gospel Choir to the evening’s final concert performances, the day’s program showcased an incredible variety of talent. New this year, WHUR 96.3 served as event host, bringing extra energy to the day’s festivities. Stages at Waterloo Street Courtyard and 6th Street were packed with performances from beloved local acts like N2N Band, XPress Band, and Prophecy Entertainment Music Group, as well as historical presentations and cultural demonstrations.
Families strolled among over 60 vendors offering everything from artisan crafts and jewelry to community resources and freshly prepared soul food. Children enjoyed dedicated activities and interactive experiences, including a lively double Dutch demonstration and the always popular Sweet Potato Pie and Pound Cake contests.
The Afro-American Historical Association of Fauquier County provided thoughtful programming that reflected on Juneteenth’s meaning, spotlighted local heroes, and brought history to life through powerful storytelling and educational exhibits.
Moments That Mattered
Despite the weather, the festival was filled with beautiful moments. A spontaneous Soul Train Line broke out in the late afternoon, with attendees young and old dancing in celebration. Crowds gathered to cheer on the winners of the baking and jam-making contests, while others swayed to the steel drum rhythms of the Trinidad & Tobago Baltimore Steel Orchestra.
Perhaps most importantly, the event served as a reminder of the strength, resilience, and vibrancy of Fauquier County’s Black community — and the broader community’s commitment to honoring that legacy together.
Thank You, Warrenton
While the skies may have been gray, the people of Warrenton filled Main Street with color, sound, and heart. To the volunteers, vendors, performers, and guests who made the day special — thank you for showing up, sharing your talents, and standing together in celebration.
For those who missed it, we hope you’ll join us next year as we continue to grow this important tradition. In the meantime, scroll through some of our favorite moments from Juneteenth 2025 in the photo gallery below. You’ll see the smiles, the hugs, the dancing, and the unmistakable sense of unity that made this event unforgettable.
Until next year — Happy Juneteenth!
