Why do we celebrate Juneteenth?: Quick Facts

Written and fact-checked by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

Oct. 7, 2026

Photos

Two parade participants walk in front of a car holding a large sign reading Happy Juneteenth Day at Milwaukee's 48th Annual Juneteenth Day Festival, with balloons attached to the car.

See All Images →

Topics

Juneteenth Emancipation Park, Juneteenth, and a Recommitment to Freedom A Teen Girl Recalls Juneteenth in the 1950s What Is the History of Juneteenth?Juneteenth: Celebrating the End of Slavery Today in History—June 19: The Origin Story of Juneteenth