Save the Date: Emancipation Day Parade on April 16

2016 is the 154th anniversary!

April 16 marks the 154th anniversary of D.C. emancipation, bringing abolition of slavery to the area before the Emancipation Proclamation. 

The D.C. Compensated Emancipation Act of 1862 freed more than 3,000 enslaved men, women and children. It also gave compensation to slave owners.

It's a public holiday in D.C. but since it falls on a Saturday this year, the Friday before means a day off for city government.  

The Emancipation Day Parade starts at 800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW and goes to 1350 Pennsylvania NW between 1 and 3 p.m. Those interested in participating in the parade should register here and go to One Judiciary Square at 12 p.m. on the day of the parade.

Mayor Muriel Bowser also plans to walk in the parade. Other events include a concert and fireworks on Freedom Plaza. 

For more information, visit the D.C. government website online here

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