Juneteenth, a federal holiday, is Thursday, June 19, and Detroit has plans to celebrate the date marking the emancipation of enslaved people in the U.S.
Juneteenth, while recently recognized by federal officials but celebrated by Black Americans across the country for decades, commemorates the enactment of the Emancipation Proclamation, which freed enslaved African Americans. It was signed by President Abraham Lincoln on Jan. 1, 1863.
However it was until June 19, 1865, that enslaved people in Galveston, Texas would learn of their freedom, marking the final day of slavery in the United States.
The name “Juneteenth” is a combination of “June” and “nineteenth,” in honor of the day.
Here’s what to know about Juneteenth and how to celebrate the holiday in Detroit:
When is Juneteenth in 2025?
Juneteenth is June 19, 2025.
Is Juneteenth a federal holiday?
Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the U.S.,m prompting the closure of federal offices, including courts, post offices, social security offices and others across the country.
Is Juneteenth a state holiday in Michigan?
Yes, Juneteenth is a state holiday in Michigan. State offices will be closed and state employees get the day off.
Juneteenth events in Detroit
The following events are set to take place across Detroit:
Detroit Symphony Orchestra will give two free community concerts to celebrate Juneteenth, according to the symphony’s website. Featuring music from African American composers, the performance is set to take place Thursday, June 19 at Greater Grace Temple in Detroit. Before the concert, the DSO will offer a variety of hands-on activities for families.
More: A holiday celebrating the end of slavery is just ahead. What to know about Juneteenth
More: Is Juneteenth a holiday? What’s open and closed on June 19
Hart Plaza will host a block party Thursday, June 19 with music, food, performances and fun to kick off the Hart of Detroit Summer Fest. Tickets are $18. More information can be found here.
Hamtramck Stadium will celebrate Juneteenth at 12:45 p.m. Thursday, June 19, with a homerun derby and speech from Dale Hale, the grandson of Eulyn “Red” Hale of the Detroit Stars, a baseball team in the Negro Leagues. More information can be found here.
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History will host a program featuring talks from Neil A. Barclay, president and CEO of the Wright Museum, followed by reflection on the meaning of Juneteenth delivered by Jamon Jordan, the city of Detroit’s official historian.
Jalen Williams is a trending reporter at the Detroit Free Press. Contact him at jawilliams1@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Where to celebrate Juneteenth in Detroit