Juneteenth 2025: Will government offices remain open? Is it a federal holiday
As the United States prepares to mark Juneteenth this Thursday, June 19, 2025, several government services and public institutions across the country are set to observe closures in recognition of the nation's newest federal holiday. Known as 'America's Second Independence Day,' Juneteenth commemorates a historic moment in the nation's path toward freedom and justice.
With federal offices and postal services largely closed, as per a USA Today report, the observance of Juneteenth brings attention not only to its historical roots but also to its growing recognition within the American civic calendar.
What is Juneteenth and Why It Matters
Juneteenth marks the day—June 19, 1865—when Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived with 2,000 troops in Galveston Bay, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation and announce the freedom of more than 250,000 enslaved African Americans. This declaration came over two years after President Abraham Lincoln had issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863.
While celebrations of this moment have taken place in Black communities for over a century, Juneteenth was formally recognised as a federal holiday in 2021 following bipartisan legislation and presidential assent. It is now observed annually on June 19.
Is Juneteenth a Federal Holiday?
Yes, Juneteenth is a federal holiday. According to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, non-essential federal government offices will remain closed on Thursday, June 19, 2025. Most federal employees are granted a paid day off, making it one of the 11 recognised federal holidays in the United States.
Live Events
Although the day is federally recognised, observances may vary at the state and local level. Public institutions such as schools, courts, and city halls often follow the federal calendar, though specific closures are determined by local jurisdictions.
Public Services and Postal Operations
Residents can expect a halt in most government-related services. Notably, the U.S. Postal Service will suspend regular mail deliveries and retail operations across the country on June 19. No standard residential or business mail will be distributed. However, Priority Mail Express services will continue uninterrupted, as they operate 365 days a year, including all federal holidays.
Those with time-sensitive deliveries or government-related errands are advised to plan accordingly.
U.S. Federal Holiday Calendar for the Remainder of 2025
In addition to June 19th holiday observances for Juneteenth, here is the remaining 2025 federal holiday calendar, as per OPM guidelines:
Independence Day: Friday, July 4
Labor Day: Monday, September 1
Columbus Day: Monday, October 13
Veterans Day: Tuesday, November 11
Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 27
Christmas Day: Thursday, December 25
FAQs
What is Juneteenth and why is it celebrated?
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day when Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring freedom for over 250,000 enslaved African Americans. It marks a significant moment in U.S. history and is often referred to as 'America's Second Independence Day.'
Is Juneteenth a federal holiday in the United States?
Yes. Juneteenth became a federally recognized holiday in 2021 and is now one of the 11 official U.S. federal holidays. In 2025, it will be observed on Thursday, June 19.
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