What is Juneteenth? What to know and how to celebrate in Tri-Cities
Juneteenth is on Friday, June 19.
Juneteenth was made a federal holiday in 2021, yet some still don’t know the history behind the holiday or how they should observe it.
Here’s what you need to know:
What is Juneteenth?
Each year, June 19 marks the anniversary of the final enslaved people in the United States to learn of their freedom following the Civil War. It was observed at the state level long before it became a federal holiday, especially in Texas.
It’s a common misconception that the enactment of the Emancipation Proclamation in January 1863 marked the end of slavery in the United States. In reality, it was only the first step.
Union troops had to inform enslaved people across the country of the proclamation, then further rights had to be established. Many remained enslaved and under Confederate control for more than two years following its enactment.
On June 19, 1865, Union troops led by General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston Bay in Texas. There, the troops made their final announcement that slaves had been freed and the war had ended, according to Scott Finnie, an expert in Africana studies at Eastern Washington University.
Juneteenth celebrates freedom, and highlights ongoing issues and continued efforts. It’s a day for activism, remembrance and increased awareness.
What is closed on Juneteenth?
Government offices in Washington state will be closed on Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.
That includes schools, public libraries, U.S. Post Service offices and Washington State Department of Licensing locations.
Many banks will also observe the holiday by shutting their doors.
How can I celebrate Juneteenth?
There are many ways to celebrate Juneteenth, and each individual will resonate with certain traditions over others.
According to the official Juneteenth website, what’s important is that your commemoration of Juneteenth is “celebratory, festive and in honor of African American history.” The site has a list of celebration ideas.
A big part of recognizing Juneteenth is spreading awareness.
That includes teaching the people in your life what the day is about. Educate others and yourself on the holiday.
Additionally, you can support Black-owned businesses and attend Juneteenth events in your area.
What are Juneteenth events in Tri-Cities in 2026?
In 2026, there are numerous events planned in celebration of Juneteenth in the month of June in Tri-Cities:
- Thursday, June 11: Pride and Juneteenth: A Community Conversation on the Intersection of 2SLGBTQIA Pride and Juneteenth, 6 to 7 p.m. at Tri-Cities Diversity and Inclusion Council in Pasco, with virtual option.
- Saturday, June 13: Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Program Pageant, 6 p.m. at Chiawana High School in Pasco.
- Sunday, June 14, 5 to 8 p.m.: Family Skate Night, 5 to 8 p.m. at Rollarena Skating Center in Richland.
- June 17, 6 to 9 p.m.: Juneteenth Adult Bowling Night, 6 to 9 p.m. at Spare Time Lanes in Kennewick
- June 18, 8 to 10 p.m.: Adult Skate Night, 8 to 10 p.m. at Rollarena Skating Center.
- June 19: Day of Service, noon to 3 p.m. at Kurtzman Park in Pasco.
- June 19: Stars of Freedom: A Juneteenth Celebration , 7 to 8 p.m. at CPCCo Planetarium in Pasco.
- June 20: Juneteenth 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, 8 a.m. at Kurtzman Park, MLK Center Gym and Outdoor Courts.
- June 20: Juneteenth Parade starting at 11 a.m. at Virgie Robinson Elementary School in Pasco.
- June 20: Juneteenth Festival, noon at Kurtzman Park
Additionally, the Museum of Keewaydin, 205 West Keewaydin Drive in Kennewick, is offering free admission in celebration of Juneteenth from noon to 4 p.m. through Friday, June 19.
The last admissions each day are at 3:30 p.m.
Did we miss an event? Let us know here: