Sunrise Ancestral Remembrance of the Middle Passage

Gather at sunrise for a community ceremony honoring the memory of those lost during the transatlantic slave trade. The 2025 Annual Sunrise Ancestral Remembrance of the Middle Passage Ceremony takes place Sunday, June 15 from 5:30 to 8:00 a.m. at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park.

Presented by the Historic Virginia Key Beach Park Trust, the morning includes a Native American “Opening of the Way,” traditional African libation, prayers, meditations, performances, open-mic “Village Talk” and the ceremonial placement of offerings carried out to sea. Attendees are welcome to bring appropriate items such as fruits, flowers, grains or African foods. White attire is encouraged but not required, and drummers and musicians are invited to participate.

Held in solidarity with communities across the U.S. and abroad, this annual gathering fosters reflection, remembrance and fellowship. Entry to the park is free before 7:00 a.m.; after that, a $10 vehicle fee applies. The ceremony takes place near the historic concession stand building.