By Mantasha - Jun 19, 2025
Juneteenth, a federal holiday since 2021, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States in 1865, falls on Thursday, June 19, 2025. Federal offices and banks will be closed, while major retailers and supermarkets will operate normally. Public transit and some cultural venues will run as usual. Community celebrations, including parades and festivals, will take place nationwide.
Fairborn Juneteenth via Logan Rickert
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Juneteenth—officially Juneteenth National Independence Day—falls on Thursday, June 19, 2025. A federal holiday since 2021, it commemorates the announcement of emancipation in Galveston, Texas, in 1865. Here’s what you need to know for the day: Federal offices, courts, Social Security and Citizenship services, and the U.S. Postal Service will be entirely closed. No regular mail or retail services; Priority Mail Express may still go out. State and local offices vary by location. For example, in many California Bay Area counties, libraries and city halls will shut down, while state-run agencies like the DMV might stay open.
All major banks (e.g. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, PNC, Capital One) will close following the Federal Reserve holiday calendar. ATMs and online/mobile banking access remains available. Stock and bond markets (NYSE, Nasdaq, U.S. bond markets) will be closed. USPS: all retail locations closed; no standard mail delivery. Most retailers and supermarkets remain open with regular hours. Chains such as Walmart, Target, Costco, Home Depot, Kroger, Aldi, CVS, Starbucks, IKEA, Walgreens (limited pharmacy) will operate normally.
Fast-food and casual dining outlets—like McDonald’s, Burger King, Chick‑fil‑A—typically stay open though independent locations may vary. Public transit: services such as BART and Caltrain in California will run normal weekday schedules. Most public schools are already closed for summer; those that would be open typically observe Juneteenth. Public libraries and similar cultural venues will close nationwide, though some private/cultural institutions may host events instead. The National Park Service will waive entrance fees at over 400 sites, offering free access to national parks. Community celebrations—parades, concerts, festivals—take place across the country (e.g., in Houston, Atlanta, New York, San Francisco Bay Area).
Juneteenth marks a historic milestone: the end of slavery in the United States, when Appalachian and Texas enslaved people gained freedom in 1865. Recognized federally in June 2021, it ranks among eleven national holidays. Today, it blends reflection, education, and community celebration—with many businesses embracing the day for both remembrance and public engagement. If you're planning errands or celebrating Juneteenth, this guide ensures you know what's open, what's closed, and where to find services on Thursday, June 19, 2025.