D.C. Emancipation Day 2012: Schedule For Parade, Street Festival, Discussions: This year, the rest of the nation may know Emancipation Day as that day that gives you a little bit more breathing room to file your tax returns, but many District of Columbia residents know better.
On April 16, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln -- nearly nine months before he signed the Emancipation Proclamation that liberated slaves in rebellious states -- freed those living in slavery within the boundaries of the nation's capital.
One hundred and fifty years later, the D.C. government will mark Emancipation Day by giving city employees and public school students the day off.
There are a handful of Emancipation Day events set for today.
First off is a new smartphone-based commemorative scavenger hunt from Cultural Tourism DC. After competitors download an app and follow specific instructions designed for the festivities, the top 30 participants will win prizes.
