Juneteenth holiday in US: How is it celebrated and what is this year's plan? All FAQs answered

Time of India

16-06-2025

Juneteenth
is observed every year on June 19 to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States and is a federal holiday in the US. The day honours those who suffered as a result of slavery in the 400 years since the first enslaved Africans arrived in the colonies, which later became the US.
Juneteenth was designated as a federal holiday under the Biden administration in 2021- expanding its recognition beyond Black America. This is the first Juneteenth under President Donald Trump's second administration, which has banned diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, or DEI, in the federal government. This has included removing Black American history content from federal websites. Trump officials have also discouraged some federal agencies from recognising other racial heritage celebrations.
How will be Juneteenth celebrated in the US?
For Juneteenth, many people in the US are expecting to look forward to a plethora of street festivals, fairs, concerts and other events planned throughout the week leading into the holiday. But with the current political climate, some may wonder if their company will honour it, reports news agency AP.
'I don't think anyone should be intimidated or obligated into not celebrating the day,' said Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League 'I've not heard of anyone being denied. I think it would be absolutely reprehensible.'
All FAQs on Juneteenth answered:
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Is Juneteenth more of a solemn day of remembrance or a party?
Actually, it depends on what you want. Juneteenth festivities are rooted in cookouts and picnics. Originally celebrated as Black Americans' true Independence Day, outdoor events allowed for large, raucous reunions among formerly enslaved family, many of whom had been separated.
Last year, the White House kicked things off early with a concert on the South Lawn for Juneteenth and Black Music Month. The atmosphere was primarily festive with Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black vice president, dancing on stage with gospel singer Kirk Franklin.
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What is this year's plan?
Plans for a Juneteenth event or proclamation this year have not been decided, according to the White House press office. Others may choose to treat Juneteenth as a day of rest and remembrance. That can mean doing community service, attending an education panel or taking time off.
What if you've never celebrated Juneteenth?
Dr. David Anderson, a Black pastor and CEO of Gracism Global—a consulting firm that helps leaders navigate conversations around race and culture—didn't grow up observing Juneteenth. In fact, he didn't learn about the holiday until he was in his 30s.
'I think a lot of people, even African Americans like myself, simply didn't know about it,' Anderson said. 'And even if you had heard of it, you didn't really celebrate it. It was just a historical fact—not something we marked with festivities.'
For many Black Americans, particularly those raised farther from Texas, large-scale Juneteenth celebrations were uncommon. In the South, the observance often depended on when news of the Emancipation Proclamation actually reached each state.
What types of public Juneteenth events are happening?
A quick online search reveals a wide variety of Juneteenth events across the country, ranging in size and style. Some celebrations take the form of vibrant festivals, complete with food trucks, arts and crafts, parades, and live entertainment. Within these festivals, you'll often find booths offering health care information, financial advice, and community resources. Many also include concerts, fashion shows showcasing Black creativity, and educational panels on the history of Juneteenth.
In honor of the holiday, the National Park Service is offering free admission to all its sites, according to its website.
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Are there traditional Juneteenth decorations or foods?
The Pan-African flag — red, black, and green — is commonly displayed during both Black History Month and Juneteenth. Red represents the bloodshed and sacrifice of enslaved ancestors; black symbolizes the people; and green signifies the rich lands of Africa.
In recent years, more people have embraced the Juneteenth flag created in 1997 by activist Ben Haith. This red, white, and blue flag reflects the American identity of the newly freed people. A five-point star at the center represents Texas, where Juneteenth originated, and is surrounded by a white outline symbolizing the spread of freedom across the country.
When it comes to food, red remains a central theme — a symbolic nod to the ancestors' sacrifice. Traditional Juneteenth dishes may include barbecue (especially ribs), red meats, watermelon, and red velvet cake. Drinks such as fruit punch or red Kool-Aid are also common.
Has Juneteenth become commercialized?
In recent years, major retailers have begun selling Juneteenth-themed merchandise, from party supplies to T-shirts. However, this year such items appear to be less visible in stores and more often available only online. Marc Morial, a civic leader, says he hopes businesses haven't backed away from Juneteenth products due to political concerns. He encourages consumers to support Black-owned businesses instead.
'If you're going to take part in that commercial aspect, find an African American vendor online,' Morial advised.
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Can non-Black people celebrate Juneteenth?
Absolutely, says Dr. Karida Brown, a sociology professor at Emory University who studies race. She encourages everyone — regardless of race — to acknowledge and celebrate Juneteenth.
'Don't feel awkward if you want to engage with Juneteenth,' Brown said. 'It is your history. This is part of the broader American story — the struggle, the progress, and the promise of freedom.'
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Are there other names for Juneteenth?
Yes — Juneteenth has also been known as Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, Black Independence Day, and the second Fourth of July.
'July 4, 1776, didn't mean freedom for Black Americans,' Brown pointed out. 'While the nation was celebrating liberty, my ancestors were still enslaved. That's why Juneteenth carries special significance.'
Is there a traditional Juneteenth greeting?
Yes! Much like 'Merry Christmas,' people commonly greet one another with 'Happy Juneteenth' or 'Happy Teenth.' Comedian Alan Freeman, who is organizing Juneteenth shows in Galveston and Houston, encourages the casual use of the greeting:
'People wish each other a 'Merry Christmas' even if they're strangers. Juneteenth should be the same — warm, welcoming, and shared.'