Juneteenth celebrates freedom and African-American heritage. It has grown in recognition and significance across the country, especially since becoming a federal holiday in 2021. Communities use this day to honor resilience, culture, and progress through various events and activities.
In Palm Beach County, residents can take part in a range of Juneteenth celebrations, including performances, exhibits and community gatherings. These events provide meaningful opportunities to come together, reflect and celebrate the ongoing journey toward equality and unity.
What is Juneteenth celebrated for?
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, marks the day—June 19, 1865—when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.
It is celebrated as a symbolic end to slavery in the United States and is often referred to as African American Independence Day.
What are the colors for Juneteenth?
The colors associated with Juneteenth are red, black, green, blue, and white. Red represents the bloodshed and resilience of enslaved people. Black symbolizes the African American community, while green stands for the fertile land of Africa and growth. Blue and white, which appear on the official Juneteenth flag, represent a new beginning and the promise of freedom in the United States.
Is Juneteenth a federal holiday?
Yes, Juneteenth is a federal holiday. It was officially recognized on June 17, 2021, when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law, making June 19 a federal holiday in the United States.
Will Publix, Walmart, major retailers be open on Juneteenth?
Banks and post offices will be closed on June 19 in observance of Juneteenth. However major restaurants, grocery and retail store chains will remain open on the holiday.
Events in Palm Beach County for Juneteenth
Palm Beach County is honoring Juneteenth with a variety of events that celebrate freedom, culture, and community. From museum exhibitions to vibrant festivals, there’s something for everyone.
Norton Museum hosts free Juneteenth community day
The Norton Museum of Art will celebrate Juneteenth with a free community day on June 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature live music, dance, spoken word, gallery talks, storytelling, and hands-on art activities celebrating freedom and the African American experience.
Admission and parking are free, making it a perfect time for first-time visitors to explore the museum’s exhibits and programs. A special drumline performance at 3:45 p.m. will close out the day’s festivities with energy and rhythm.
Spady Museum hosts free Juneteenth mural workshop
Celebrate Juneteenth through art, culture, and community at the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum in Delray Beach. From June 15–19, young adults and adults are invited to take part in a free five-day mural workshop exploring African design and Adinkra symbols while helping create three vibrant mobile murals.
The murals will be unveiled on Juneteenth, June 19, and displayed along the museum’s fence to honor powerful community stories.
Space is limited. Call 561-279-8883 to register.
Juneteenth fashion show in West Palm Beach
Unity x Black Excellence Festival is scheduled for June 22 from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Meyer Amphitheater, 104 Datura St., West Palm Beach. This vibrant festival celebrates Black excellence with live music, food, vendors and community resources. Attendees are encouraged to wear HBCU paraphernalia.
Juneteenth Glades Youth Talent Explosion
Nearly 100 youth from Belle Glade, Pahokee, and South Bay will take the stage at the fourth annual Glades Youth Talent Explosion on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club in Belle Glade. The free Juneteenth celebration will showcase singers, dancers, and musicians ages 5 to 18 competing for cash prizes and community recognition.
The event aims to uplift at-risk youth through mentorship and the arts, with past participants crediting it for life-changing experiences—from academic success to entrepreneurship. Organized by Rev. Willie Lawrence, Veree Jenkins, and Joel Simmons, the showcase is supported by Palm Health Foundation and several local organizations.
Diamond Walker is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at dkwalker@gannett.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Juneteenth 2025: Is it a federal holiday? Events in Palm Beach County
