U.S. Stock Market Closed on Juneteenth: What Traders Need to Know

Mark your calendar: On June 19th, all major U.S. stock exchanges will be shut down to observe Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.

Which Markets Are Affected?

NYSE, Nasdaq, S&P 500, Dow Jones, and bond markets all go dark for the day. If Juneteenth falls on a weekday (like Thursday this year), you’re looking at a full market closure. Trading resumes Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. ET—creating a shortened trading week.

Why Should You Care?

For active traders and investors, this means:

• No equity or bond trading for 24 hours
• Potential liquidity gaps when markets reopen
• Plan your positions accordingly before Thursday close

Pro tip: Check if your crypto exchange is also adjusting hours, since some align with traditional market closures.

Beyond the Market: What’s Juneteenth?

Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865, when Union forces announced the end of slavery in Texas—the last state to hold enslaved people. After the Emancipation Proclamation (Jan. 1, 1863), it took over two years for the news to reach some areas. President Biden signed it into federal law on June 17, 2021.

Want to learn more? The National Museum of African American History & Culture is hosting virtual events, Step Afrika! is performing, and the Juneteenth Foundation runs festivals celebrating this milestone in American history.