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Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day, Freedom Day or Juneteenth Independence Day, is the nation’s newest federal holiday marking the end of slavery in the U.S. It will be observed on Thursday, June 19.

Many local, state and federal departments will shut their offices in observance of the holiday.

Here’s what you need to know about Juneteenth and what in Alabama will be affected by closures.

What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865, the day Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and told more than 250,000 enslaved Black Americans they were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

The day has been celebrated for generations, especially in Black communities and became a federal holiday in 2021 when President Joe Biden signed legislation to make Juneteenth a federal holiday.

When did Alabama make Juneteenth an official state holiday?

In May 2025, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed a bill making Juneteenth an official state holiday. The move followed years of effort by Black lawmakers, whose past proposals were either blocked or tied to Jefferson Davis’ birthday, a state holiday honoring the Confederate leader and slaveholder.

What will be closed in Alabama on Juneteenth?

In Alabama, state and federal offices will be closed on Wednesday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth. Post offices will also be closed for retail and mail delivery, but UPS and FedEx will continue regular package delivery. Most banks in the state follow the federal holiday schedule, so they’ll also be closed.

Will the liquor store in Alabama be open on Juneteenth?

If you’re planning to buy alcohol in Alabama on June 19, you’re out of luck. All state-run liquor stores will be closed for Juneteenth.

Will major retailers in Alabama be open on Juneteenth?

Most major retailers, such as Walmart, Target and Costco, are expected to be open during regular business hours. Grocery stores like Kroger, Publix and others will also be open. However, some may have reduced holiday hours. Check with your local stores to confirm holiday hours, as store hours can vary by location.

Is trash pickup delayed for Juneteenth?

Trash pickup may be delayed because of Juneteenth, depending on the hauler. Contact your municipality or private provider to learn more.

Will schools and campuses be open?

Schools and college campuses across Alabama will be closed in observance of Juneteenth.

Alabama’s federal holiday schedule for the remainder of 2025

  • July 4: Fourth of July
  • September 1: Labor Day
  • October 13: Columbus Day & Fraternal Day & American Indian Heritage Day
  • November 11: Veterans’ Day
  • November 27: Thanksgiving
  • December 1: Mrs. Rosa L. Parks Day
  • December 25: Christmas Day

Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@gannett.com.