Juneteenth is a US public holiday that commemorates the day enslaved people in Texas learned they were free, marking the effective end of slavery in the United States.
When is Juneteenth in 2025?
Juneteenth is observed annually on 19 June. In 2025, the date falls on a Thursday.
The day is recognised as a federal holiday in the United States, meaning many government offices, schools, and businesses are closed in observance.
The historical significance of Juneteenth
Juneteenth marks a key moment in American history — the end of slavery.
While President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on 1 January 1863, freeing slaves in Confederate states, it wasn’t until 19 June 1865, that Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the order.
This date is when enslaved African Americans in Texas finally learned they were free, more than two years after the official proclamation.
That moment — when freedom was realised in the last remaining Confederate state — is what Juneteenth commemorates. The name “Juneteenth” is a combination of “June” and “nineteenth.”
For many African Americans, the day holds deep emotional and historical meaning. It’s a reminder of the long struggle for freedom and equality, as well as a celebration of resilience and culture.
In 2021, Juneteenth was declared a federal holiday when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law.
“By making Juneteenth a federal holiday, all Americans can feel the power of this day and learn from our history,” President Biden said at the time.
How to celebrate Juneteenth
Juneteenth is celebrated in different ways across the country. For many, it’s a day of reflection and education. Families attend church services, visit museums or heritage sites, and hold community discussions about African American history and civil rights.
Others choose to celebrate with festivals, parades, and cookouts. Red foods and drinks, such as red velvet cake, watermelon, and hibiscus punch, are often served, symbolizing resilience and sacrifice.
Public events might include live music, dance, storytelling, and performances that honour African American traditions. Community service and support for black-owned businesses are also common ways people mark the day.
Importantly, Juneteenth is also a moment to acknowledge ongoing challenges related to racial inequality and justice. Many organisations host workshops, film screenings, and public talks aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding.
Whether through quiet reflection or joyful celebration, Juneteenth offers an opportunity for all Americans to honour a pivotal moment in the country’s history — and to continue the work toward a more just society.
