Juneteenth, short for “June Nineteenth,” marks a significant moment in American history. It commemorates the day in 1865 when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to take control of the state and enforce the emancipation of all enslaved people. This pivotal event occurred two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.
On June 19, 1865, freedom finally reached the last remaining enslaved African Americans in Texas, symbolizing the end of slavery in the United States. This day is not just a historical marker but a powerful reminder of the long and ongoing struggle for freedom and equality.
Juneteenth was officially declared a federal holiday on June 17, 2021
Recognizing its profound importance in American history and culture. This official recognition helps to honor and remember the past while looking forward to a more equitable future.
Juneteenth in 2024 will be observed on Wednesday, June 19. As we prepare to celebrate this important day, it’s essential to know how it might impact daily activities, especially regarding essential services.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Post Offices: The United States Postal Service locations will be closed, and there will be no regular mail delivery. However, holiday premium Priority Mail Express will still be available.
- Banks: Most banks will also be closed in observance of the holiday. Check with your local branch for specific details.
- Shipping Services: While major shipping services may have limited operations, it’s best to confirm with your provider.
As we approach Juneteenth, let’s take a moment to reflect on its significance and prepare to honor this day with the respect and recognition it truly deserves.
As we approach Juneteenth, it’s important to know how it affects our daily routines and services. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you can expect during this holiday.
Retail Locations and Mail Delivery
All retail locations will be open during their regular business hours. Regular mail delivery services will resume on Thursday, June 20. Despite the holiday, customers can still access a range of services online, 24/7, including:
- Ordering stamps and shipping supplies
- Printing shipping labels
- Requesting package pickups
Additionally, you can purchase stamps at most major grocery stores, big box stores, some pharmacies, and even ATMs.
Bank Operations on Juneteenth
Are Banks Open on Juneteenth?
According to USA TODAY, several major banks will be closed on Juneteenth. These include:
- Capital One
- Bank of America
- PNC
- Truist
- CitiBank
- JPMorgan Chase
Grocery Stores Open on Juneteenth
If you need to do some shopping, here is a list of major retailers that will be open on Juneteenth:
- H-E-B: Open from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
- Costco Wholesale: Open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
- Walmart: Operating their usual hours from 6:00 a.m. onwards.
We hope this guide helps you plan your activities around the Juneteenth holiday. Enjoy your day!
