- This event has passed.
Juneteenth Sunrise Service at Compton Oak
June 16 @ 6:00 am – 7:00 am
The Juneteenth Sunrise Service
Sunday Morning, June 16, at 6 a.m.
Location: Majestic Compton Oak on Market Square North – behind the Court House
Join us for an inspirational early morning outdoor service under the Compton Oak, one of Colonial Williamsburg’s most iconic trees.
Celebrating the Spirit of the African American Journey
The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation proudly presents the Juneteenth Sunrise Service to honor the resilience and triumph of the African American community. The event will be held on Sunday morning, June 16, at 6 a.m. beneath the majestic Compton Oak on Market Square. This tree stands as a symbol of life, endurance, shelter, and joy.
Keynote Address: Special keynote address by world-renowned poet and writer Nikki Giovanni.
Inspired by “Watch Night”
The Juneteenth Sunrise Service draws its inspiration from “Watch Night” or “Freedom’s Eve,” a tradition in Black churches that originated on December 31, 1862. On this night, enslaved African Americans awaited the dawn of the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863.
Historical Background
- The Moravian community in Herrnhut, Germany, conducted the first documented Sunrise Service for Easter in 1732.
- Early Moravian settlers brought this tradition to the American colonies, where it was embraced by various denominations, including both Black and white churches.
- Southern Black churches combined Easter Sunrise Services with all-night vigils, such as the Easter Rock in Louisiana.
- These services also commemorated other important historic milestones, like the Union forces’ capture of Wilmington, North Carolina, in February 1865.
For more details, click here.
See more Juneteenth Weekend Events here.
