Juneteenth 2025: A Celebration of Freedom and History
Juneteenth will be celebrated on Thursday, June 19, 2025. This federal holiday honors the day in 1865 when the last group of enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned they were free—more than two years after slavery had officially ended with the Emancipation Proclamation.
Since becoming a national holiday in 2021, Juneteenth has grown in awareness and celebration across the country.
Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when federal troops publicly read the Emancipation Proclamation in Galveston, Texas. The troops had arrived in Texas several days earlier to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people were freed. The troops’ arrival came a full… pic.twitter.com/W2Gp1wWFrc
— HISTORY (@HISTORY) June 19, 2024
Government offices, post offices, and many banks will likely be closed, as they observe the day as a paid holiday. Some private companies may also close or host special events to honor the occasion.
Juneteenth is more than a history lesson. It’s a day of joy, reflection, and community. People celebrate with parades, concerts, food festivals, and educational events.
Red-colored foods and drinks, like red velvet cake and fruit punch, are commonly served because red is seen as a symbol of strength and resilience in Black culture.
This day is also known as Emancipation Day, Jubilee Day, or Freedom Day. It is a time to remember history and to support the ongoing efforts for fairness and equal rights.. Many schools, libraries, and museums offer free events and programs to help people learn about the importance of this day.
As the holiday nears, cities across the U.S. will host events and festivals. Some began celebrations days in advance, with community barbecues, art shows, and historical tours.
These activities bring people together and serve as a reminder of the progress made—and the work still to be done.
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