When is Juneteenth? What You Need to Know About the Federal Holiday

Summary:
Juneteenth is celebrated every year on June 19 to honor the day enslaved people in Texas were finally freed, marking a major milestone in Black American history. Officially recognized as a federal holiday since 2021, Juneteenth features community celebrations, historical reflection, and time off for many workers across the United States. This guide explains Juneteenth's origins, significance, activities, and what businesses remain open or closed that day.

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1. What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is a holiday steeped in history and meaning for Black Americans and the entire nation. It marks June 19, 1865, as a crucial day when Union soldiers, led by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that slavery had ended in the United States. This announcement came remarkably late—two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln had issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which technically freed enslaved people in Confederate states.

As the article explains:

"Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger led Union soldiers into Galveston, Texas, bringing news that slavery in the United States had ended by executive decree."

This moment finally made the promise of freedom real for tens of thousands of enslaved Texans, and Juneteenth has since come to represent both celebration and reflection.

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2. When is Juneteenth?

Every year, Juneteenth is celebrated on June 19. On this day, people across the country gather to reflect on Black Americans' history, journey, and culture.

"Each year, Americans celebrate Juneteenth on June 19 by celebrating and reflecting on the history, journey and culture of Black Americans."

So, if you're ever wondering when this meaningful holiday happens—mark your calendar for June 19 every year!

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3. What Does 'Juneteenth' Mean?

The name "Juneteenth" is a creative blend of the words "June" and "nineteenth." This playful combination marks the exact day when enslaved people in Texas learned about their freedom.

"The word 'Juneteenth' is a combination of 'June' and '19th,' the month and day that formerly enslaved people in Texas were freed."

It's a simple yet powerful name that echoes the significance of this date year after year.

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4. Is Juneteenth a Federal Holiday?

Yes—Juneteenth is officially a federal holiday in the United States! This change became official quite recently, on June 17, 2021, when the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act was signed into law.

"Juneteenth became a federal holiday on June 17, 2021, when the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act was signed into law. All federal employees get a paid day off for the holiday."

In addition to its federal status, Juneteenth is recognized as a state holiday in places like Ohio as well. This means government offices and many businesses now observe the day with time off and special recognition.

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5. How is Juneteenth Celebrated?

Juneteenth traditions are as rich and lively as the history they honor! Communities across the country organize all kinds of joyful events, such as:

• Parades
• Family reunions
• Speeches and reflections
• Communal meals

Many people also attend festivals with delicious food, upbeat music, and dancing. If you want to get involved, there are opportunities to visit historical sites, volunteer, or learn more about the past and significance of Juneteenth.

"Juneteenth is celebrated with various activities, including parades, family reunions, speeches, and communal meals. Many communities host festivals with food, music, and dancing."

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6. What is Open and Closed on Juneteenth?

Because Juneteenth is now a federal holiday, several major institutions shut down for the day. Here's what you need to know:

Closed on Juneteenth:

• Banks
• Post offices
• The stock market

These closures are observed by the Federal Reserve and other major institutions.

"Banks, post offices and the stock market will be closed, as Juneteenth is a federal holiday observed by the Federal Reserve."

Open on Juneteenth:

• Many stores and restaurants remain open, though individual business hours might vary—so it's best to check before heading out.

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Conclusion

Juneteenth, celebrated each year on June 19, is a day of celebration, remembrance, and continued learning. Since becoming a federal holiday in 2021, it has only grown in visibility and importance, offering a chance for Americans everywhere to honor the profound impact and contributions of Black Americans. This day is a reminder of the progress made—and the work that continues—toward true freedom and equality.