Juneteenth History, Traditions, and How to Celebrate in 2025
On June 19, 1865, enslaved people in Galveston, Texas learned they were free—two years after President Abraham Lincoln had issued the Emancipation Proclamation. That delayed announcement led to the creation of Juneteenth, now celebrated across the United States as a powerful reminder of freedom, resilience, and Black American history.
In 2021, Juneteenth became a federal holiday, expanding recognition of a day long honored by Black communities. Now in 2025, amid political shifts and cultural debates, the meaning of Juneteenth is more relevant than ever.
Why Juneteenth Still Matters
Juneteenth—short for June nineteenth—is more than a date on the calendar. It’s often called Freedom Day or the Black Fourth of July, symbolizing when freedom finally reached those who had been left behind even after slavery’s supposed legal end.
This year, the holiday is observed under President Donald Trump’s second administration, which has banned DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) initiatives in federal agencies. Some institutions have even removed Black history content from their websites. But despite the political climate, Juneteenth continues to be celebrated, with events ranging from cookouts to concerts, educational panels to parades.
As Marc Morial, president of the National Urban League, says:
“No one should feel intimidated or obligated not to celebrate.”
Traditional and Modern Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth
There’s no single “right” way to mark Juneteenth. Celebrations vary, but here are common themes and traditions:
Cookouts and Community Gatherings
Rooted in Black family reunions, Juneteenth events often feature barbecues, picnics, and red foods symbolizing the blood and sacrifice of enslaved ancestors—think ribs, red velvet cake, watermelon, and fruit punch.
Educational Events and Panels
For many, Juneteenth is a time to learn and reflect. You’ll find history panels, film screenings, and community dialogues addressing freedom, race, and resilience.
Rest and Remembrance
Some people use the day to volunteer, visit museums, or simply take time off to reflect. Knowing what Juneteenth means is a celebration in itself.
Fashion, Music, and Arts
Juneteenth is also a day to showcase Black creativity—through fashion shows, live music, spoken word, and visual art. Celebrations often include tributes to Black Music Month as well.
National Parks and Public Spaces
The National Park Service offers free admission on Juneteenth, making it a great opportunity to explore and reflect on America’s history and natural beauty.
Flags and Symbols of the Day
- Pan-African Flag (Red, Black, Green):
Red for blood, Black for the people, Green for Africa’s rich land. - Juneteenth Flag (Red, White, Blue):
Created in 1997 by Ben Haith, the design includes a white star (for Texas), a burst of freedom, and colors representing Black Americans as Americans.
Can Non-Black Americans Celebrate Juneteenth
Absolutely. Dr. Karida Brown, a sociologist at Emory University, encourages all Americans to engage:
“This is your history too… The good, the bad, the ugly.”
She emphasizes that Juneteenth is part of the American story of freedom, and learning about it is a way to honor shared values and acknowledge difficult truths.
How to Support and Shop for Juneteenth
Though Juneteenth merchandise may be less visible in stores this year, supporting Black-owned businesses remains a meaningful way to celebrate. Morial suggests:
“Go online and look for an African American vendor… That’s where your dollars make an impact.”
What to Say on Juneteenth
It’s common to greet others with “Happy Juneteenth” or even “Happy Teenth.” As comedian Alan Freeman puts it:
“Like ‘Merry Christmas,’ it’s something you can say to strangers and friends alike.”
More…
- https://www.npr.org/2025/06/16/nx-s1-5435689/what-does-juneteenth-mean-to-you-we-want-to-hear-your-story
- https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/12/travel/juneteenth-events-black-history.html
- https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/2025/06/16/juneteenth-galveston-texas/d57721a4-4a6a-11f0-8fff-262d6ec54ab9_story.html
