DANVILLE, VA – A crowd estimated at 250 gathered on the lawn of the Sutherlin Mansion  in Danville Saturday night to celebrate Juneteenth.

The gathering — billed as a Jazz and Poetry Event for Juneteenth — was organized by Justin Ferrell and featured a live band, recitations and poetry readings.

The outdoor event included multiple Black business vendors  and two food trucks, both owned by African-Americans.

The Juneteenth celebration was held on the lawn of the mansion and is the first since Gov. Northam lifted Virginia’s mask ordinance.

Participants began gathering around 6 p.m. and enjoyed jazz and rhythm and blues music until 8:45.