Attend a Community Commemoration
Look for a local Juneteenth program, historical talk, museum event, or community gathering.
Things to Do on Juneteenth
Find useful things to do on Juneteenth and during the surrounding holiday period.
Things to Do on Juneteenth
Read General Order No. 3
Read the preserved order and learn how it relates to the Emancipation Proclamation and emancipation in Texas.
Explore Local African American History
Visit a museum, historic site, archive, or library collection focused on African American history in your area.
Gather With Family or Community
A picnic, shared meal, or family gathering can create space for remembrance, learning, and connection.
Common questions
Juneteenth FAQ
Clear answers about the date, meaning, and observance.
When is Juneteenth in 2027?
Juneteenth in 2027 is Friday, June 18, 2027.
What does Juneteenth commemorate?
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when General Order No. 3 informed the people of Texas that enslaved people were free.
Why is it called Juneteenth?
The name is a combination of June and nineteenth.
When did Juneteenth become a federal holiday?
Juneteenth became a federal legal public holiday on June 17, 2021, through Public Law 117-17.
Where did Juneteenth begin?
The observance is rooted in Galveston, Texas, where General Order No. 3 was issued on June 19, 1865.