Have No Fear, Lubbock Doesn’t Close Down For Juneteenth

June 19th—also known as Juneteenth—is a federal holiday. But here in Lubbock, Texas? It’s pretty much business as usual.

Juneteenth was officially designated a federal holiday in 2021. And honestly, being callous for a second, how anyone could object to another day off is beyond me. We all work hard—take the break.

Now, getting a bit more proper about it, Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in Galveston were told they were free. That’s two and a half years after they were actually freed. So yes, some folks in Texas weren’t exactly sprinting to share the news. And that’s putting it gently.

Lubbock Says “Happy Juneteenth,” Now Back to Work

So it’s no surprise that Juneteenth still isn’t widely embraced across all parts of the Lone Star State. In Lubbock, for instance, city offices, courts, and most downtown operations are running at full speed today. Got official city business? You’re good to go.

But don’t expect the same from federal buildings, most banks, or the post office—they’re closed. Think of it like President’s Day or Columbus Day, one of those “bank holidays” that half the country observes and the other half shrugs at.

Read More: What Lubbock Residents Should Know About Tornado Season

As for stores and restaurants, most are open, but hey—it’s always smart to Google before you go. You never know who’s using this as a chance to sneak in a long weekend.

So happy Juneteenth, whether you're working, resting, or just now finding out what the day even means.