Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, is being observed nationwide on June 19.
Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021 after former President Joe Biden signed legislation recognizing June 19 as a national day of observance. The holiday commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and informed enslaved African Americans that they were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
Americans mark the occasion with parades, cultural events and community celebrations. Many are asking what businesses and services are closed for the holiday.
Read more: What is Juneteenth? Know about federal holiday’s origin history, significance and celebrations
What is closed on Juneteenth?
Federal government offices are closed on Juneteenth because it is an official federal holiday. Many state and local government offices also suspend operations, although schedules can vary by jurisdiction.
Post offices
The United States Postal Service will not deliver mail or parcels on Friday.
Some private delivery services continue to operate. FedEx and UPS both have a holiday delivery schedule for Juneteenth, but both delivery services will be operational on both days.
According to the company’s website, UPS will offer pickup and delivery services on Juneteenth. Additionally, UPS stores will be open. The UPS Store locations will remain open. For information about the store’s operating hours, customers should visit its website.
FedEx pickup and delivery services will be accessible on June 19, according to its website. Additionally, FedEx offices will be open.
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Banks
Due to the Federal Reserve’s Juneteenth observance on Friday, the majority of banks will be closed. Although many banks close on federal holidays, they are not obligated to.
Some of the banks include Bank of America, Chase, Citibank, Capital One, M&T, PNC, Santander, Truist and Wells Fargo.
Before visiting the banking facility, it is advised to find out the holiday hours from your local bank branch.
Stock Market
Both the NASDAQ and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) will be closed on Friday.
Retail stores
Almost every major retail chain, including Walmart, Target, Costco, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Kohl’s, Macy’s, TJ Maxx, and most others, will be open during regular business hours on Friday.
Grocery stores, eateries, and shops will also be open; however, customers should check their websites since the hours may differ depending on the region.
