Join the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture at DC’s Wharf for The Purple Ball: Echoes of the Pearl—an extraordinary evening celebrating the Museum’s 10th anniversary.

The Purple Ball: Echoes of the Pearl pays tribute to the 77 freedom seekers who boarded the schooner Pearl from the District Waterfront in 1848, risking everything in pursuit of freedom. 

Set against the stunning waterfront where history and culture converge, this unforgettable celebration will feature live entertainment, inspiring moments, and the opportunity to honor a decade of preserving, sharing and celebrating African American history. Proceeds from this fundraiser will help bolster the museum’s exhibitions, programming, and education initiatives.

Guests are invited to wear shades of purple, symbolizing beauty, royalty, faith, prosperity, and healing. Together, we'll gather at the very place where this historic journey began to celebrate a legacy of courage, resilience and hope—and to help ensure these powerful stories continue to inspire for generations to come.