Join us August 7–9, 2026 for "Exploring Kunta," an immersive three-day cultural heritage tour honoring the 50th anniversary of Roots by Alex Haley.
For 50 years, Roots has shaped conversations about ancestry, identity, and the power of storytelling. Now, we invite you to experience this legacy in a deeper, more meaningful way.
Friday | August 7, 2026 | Annapolis, MD | 50th Anniversary Symposium & Celebration
The experience begins at the Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial at the historic Annapolis City Dock — The documented arrival point of the slave ship Lord Ligonier in 1767.
The day includes:
Libations Ceremony at the Waterfront
50th Anniversary Symposium on Oral History & Storytelling
Evening Commemorative Celebration
Saturday | August 8, 2026 (11a-5p) | Fredericksburg, VA | Community, Resistance & Resilience
Programming continues in Fredericksburg with guided cultural exploration, including:
Exhibitions at the Fredericksburg Area Museum
Civil Rights Trail Driving Tour tracing the stories of 13 Freedom Riders & the historic Shiloh Baptist Church
Historic Trolley Tour
Genealogy seminar connecting personal ancestry to collective memory
This day centers Community, Resilience, Resistance & Cultural Preservation.
Sunday | August 9, 2026 | Spotsylvania, VA | Joy Fest
The journey concludes with Joy Fest at the John J. Wright Educational & Cultural Center — A celebratory gathering featuring live music, food, fellowship and a headline gospel performance by Grammy-Nominated Artist Luther Barnes.
Joy Fest honors legacy not only through remembrance, but through joy, unity and cultural pride. Participants return to Annapolis via charter transportation following the event.
The Roots 50th Commemorative Experience includes:
Round-trip Charter Bus Transportation (Annapolis to Fredericksburg)
Two (2) Nights Hotel Accommodation (Annapolis and Fredericksburg)
Guided Tours and Site Admissions
Symposium and Genealogy Workshops
Meals and Refreshments
Joy Fest Admission and Luther Barnes Concert
Commemorative Program Materials
Space is limited! Early registration is encouraged.
This commemorative experience is in partnership with the Haley family and museums across Virginia and Maryland.