Juneteenth—the newest federal holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States—may remain unfamiliar to some. People across America and around the world are still learning about this important observance, which we celebrate today, Friday, June 19.
Here’s everything you need to know about the day, including what’s open and closed. A special attraction this year is the official public opening of the Obama Presidential Center and Library in Chicago.
What is Juneteenth?
In a modern world where communication is almost instantaneous, it is easy to forget the slow nature of historical enforcement and change. President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, freeing enslaved people in Confederate-controlled states.
However, the barbaric practice continued in Texas because enslavers willfully ignored the decree and the Union Army lacked the local military presence to enforce it.
This changed when federal troops under Gen. Gordon Granger marched into Galveston on June 19, 1865. It had taken two and a half years for the Union soldiers to arrive. Even then, slavery was not permanently abolished nationwide until the 13th Amendment was ratified on December 6, 1865.
On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed the law establishing Juneteenth as an official federal holiday.
Are municipal offices open on Juneteenth?
No. Because Juneteenth is a federal holiday, places like courthouses and city halls will be closed.
Is the post office open on Juneteenth?
No, physical post offices will not be open on Juneteenth, as the United States Postal Service (USPS) takes the day off.
Additionally, mail will not be delivered. The only exception to this rule is Priority Mail Express. Stock up on stamps and send important correspondence like bills ahead of time.
Are FedEx and UPS operating on Juneteenth?
Yes, most FedEx and UPS locations are open. Packages will be delivered as well.
Is the DMV open on Juneteenth?
No. You are going to have to finally get your Real ID on another day.
Are banks open on Juneteenth?
No. The Federal Reserve is closed, so most banks follow suit, including major financial services chains such as Chase Bank, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Citibank.
Is the stock market open on Juneteenth?
No. You will have to buy and sell another day. Both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Nasdaq are closed for business.
Are schools open on Juneteenth?
No. Most schools are out for the summer. Some could take the day off if in session, but that would be up to the individual districts, as schools are not required to close on federal holidays.
Are restaurants, pharmacies, and grocery stores open on Juneteenth?
Yes. Most restaurants, pharmacies, and grocery stores will be open for business.
Target, Walmart, and Aldi will be selling sunscreen and BBQ supplies. Starbucks can caffeinate you. CVS and Walgreens can refill your prescriptions. Costco will also be open.
It is a good practice to double-check with your favorite locations before leaving your house, just to be sure they didn’t modify their hours for the observance.
Is the Obama Presidential Center open on Juneteenth?
Yes. It is no accident that the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center and Library falls on Juneteenth.
Located in Chicago’s South Side, this 19.3-acre campus has an impressive list of features, including a museum, a new branch of the Chicago Public Library, outdoor art, gardens, a basketball court, public gathering spaces, and more.
It is designed to encourage civic engagement, and most of the offerings are free. (The museum charges for admission, but Illinois residents get a discount and can get in for free on Tuesdays. Check the website for ticket availability and the next release dates.)