About Juneteenth in the United States
Juneteenth National Independence Day is a federal holiday on 19 June. It commemorates 19 June 1865, when Union forces in Galveston, Texas, announced and enforced freedom for enslaved people there after the Civil War.
The history behind Juneteenth
The Emancipation Proclamation had taken effect in 1863, but slavery persisted in Texas while the war and enforcement conditions continued. On 19 June 1865, Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and issued General Order No. 3 announcing freedom.
Black Texans developed annual Juneteenth commemorations after the Civil War, and the observance spread over time. The day recognizes emancipation while also inviting attention to the long and unfinished history of freedom and equal rights.
How it became a federal holiday
Public Law 117-17 added Juneteenth National Independence Day to the federal legal-holiday list in 2021. The statutory date is 19 June.
If 19 June falls on Saturday, most Monday-to-Friday federal employees observe it on Friday; if it falls on Sunday, Monday is generally the observed day. The historical commemoration remains on 19 June.
Observance and practical planning
Community observances may include history programs, music, festivals, reflection and educational events. Programs differ by location, and the National Park Service highlights sites that interpret emancipation and African American history.
Federal offices follow the federal schedule, while state recognition and private-sector closures are separate questions. Check the relevant state, employer, school or service calendar when planning.
Common questions about Juneteenth
What does Juneteenth commemorate?
It commemorates 19 June 1865, when Union forces announced and enforced emancipation in Galveston, Texas.
When did Juneteenth become a federal holiday?
It became a federal legal public holiday in 2021 through Public Law 117-17.