Juneteenth, which marks the end of slavery in the United States, is now officially a federal holiday. For the fourth consecutive year, millions of Americans will observe the day on June 19, 2025. As a result, numerous banks, federal institutions, and other services will remain closed. Here’s a quick overview of how Juneteenth will impact your daily routine.
The Significance of Juneteenth and its Impact on Public Services
Juneteenth, celebrated every year on June 19, commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Texas were told they were free, two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.
The holiday serves as a reminder of the nation’s history and the ongoing struggle for equality. In 2021, the US government officially recognised Juneteenth as a federal holiday.
The implications of this recognition are far-reaching, affecting both federal and state offices, private businesses, and essential services. According to experts, banks and financial institutions generally observe the closure of their branches on this day, mirroring the federal government’s stance.
This means that many banking services—including ATMs and online platforms—could also be impacted, though some institutions may provide limited service or extended hours beforehand.
Which Banks Are Closed on Juneteenth 2025?
Many of the country’s largest banks will observe Juneteenth by closing their branches for the day. Major institutions like Bank of America, Chase Bank, PNC, and Citibank will be closed, following the federal holiday guidelines.
These closures extend to both physical branches and their financial services, with online platforms potentially seeing reduced customer service hours.
As Juneteenth is now recognised as a federal holiday, it also impacts the New York Stock Exchange and other financial markets, which will close for the day.
However, essential services, such as FedEx, will continue operations, with their usual pickup and delivery schedules unaffected by the holiday. It’s crucial for consumers to plan ahead, especially if they rely on in-person banking services.
In addition to banking closures, the U.S. Postal Service will suspend mail delivery for the day, while many other businesses, including grocery stores like Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods, will remain open.
According to a statement from Truist, a leading banking institution, “In general, we observe the Federal Reserve holiday schedule.” This reinforces the general practice among financial institutions, which align their operations with federal observances.
What to Expect from Retailers and Other Services
Despite Juneteenth’s status as a federal holiday, not all services will be impacted. Most retailers and grocery stores will continue operating. For instance, major grocery chains such as Aldi, Kroger, and Whole Foods will be open, ensuring that consumers can access essential goods even during the holiday.
While private companies have the discretion to decide whether or not they close their doors, public offices and state government services in nearly 30 states will observe Juneteenth, with workers taking the day off. Retailers may also adjust their hours, but essential businesses will typically remain open.
