Juneteenth, now recognized as a federal holiday, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans, and often includes celebrations of freedom and African-American culture. The Port Washington Public Library will be hosting two events celebrating Juneteenth this year, which include an afternoon lecture and a musical performance for families. Both events are free.

Pops is Tops: Music of Louis Armstrong
Saturday, June 18 at 3:00 p.m.

The Louis Armstrong House Museum is proud to present the amazing Alphonso Horne and his band, performing an interactive concert featuring the music of Louis Armstrong. This event is brought to you by the PWPL Children’s Library and will be an in-person only event for families. Registration is required with priority given to Port Washington card holders. Made possible by The Donald & Barbara Zucker Family Foundation. Please register at www.pwpl.org/events

Sandwiched In with Ricky Riccardi – Black and Blue: Louis Armstrong as Ambassador of Goodwill During the Civil Rights Era
Friday, June 17 at 12:00 p.m.

In the 1950s, legendary trumpeter Louis Armstrong began hitting new high points in his storied career, especially overseas where he was known as “Ambassador Satch.” But in between history-making tours of Europe and Africa, Armstrong put his career on the line to speak out against racial injustice back home in the United States. Armstrong’s brave words made headlines around the world. Ricky Riccardi, Director of Research Collections at the Louis Armstrong House Museum, will tell the story of the decade between 1955 and 1965, utilizing rare videos, audio, and photos from the Armstrong Archives, the largest archives in the world for a single jazz musician. Participants are invited to join us in-person or virtually over Zoom. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Please register at www.pwpl.org/events