What’s closed Friday for America’s newest federal holiday?
Juneteenth became a federal holiday on June 17, 2021 when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law.
Mason Reed 
Juneteenth stands as our nation's newest federal holiday, observed annually on June 19. In 2026, the calendar places this significant day of remembrance on a Friday.
The History of Juneteenth
The roots of this holiday extend back to Galveston, Texas. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers under the command of Major Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in the city to deliver the transformative news that the Civil War had concluded and that all enslaved people were now free. This pivotal moment arrived two-and-a-half years following President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation of Jan. 1, 1863.
Because the Emancipation Proclamation was issued while the Civil War was still ongoing, it was largely disregarded by Confederate states. It was not until the conclusion of the war that this executive order could finally be enforced across the South.
Why We Celebrate
Formed by blending 'June' and 'nineteenth,' the term Juneteenth began appearing around 1903 to honor Major Gen. Granger’s announcement. The day is also widely recognized as African American Freedom Day or Emancipation Day.
President Joe Biden officially established the holiday on June 17, 2021, when he signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law.
As we observe the holiday this Friday, please note that all federal offices will be closed. 205focus.com is tracking what remains open and closed during the holiday—here is the breakdown of what you need to know.
