What’s Open and Closed this Juneteenth in Reno, Sparks and Washoe County

Juneteenth is a federal holiday that was designated back 2021. It recognizes the official end of the United States Civil War when troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865. It was on that date that the enslaved people of the city learned that they were in fact free — two years after the official act in 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation, that liberated them nationwide.

It’s been observed in many Black communities since, but it wasn’t until former President Joe Biden signed the legislation that it became a federal holiday.

So, What’s Open or Closed?

Just like other federal holidays, many government offices in Washoe County will be closed in observance of Juneteenth. That includes city halls like Reno‘s, the Department of Motor Vehicles, and Washoe County courts and federal courts systems. Schools will be closed too.

In previous years, these offices were also closed: Administrative offices at the Washoe County complex, Washoe County Libraries, Regional Animal Services Shelter operations, the Sheriff’s Office, Washoe County Human Services Agency, and all meal distribution locations.

The postal office won’t be doing any regular mail deliveries, except only those designated as holiday premium Priority Mail Express.

You can also expect the banks to be closed as Juneteenth is also a bank holiday. ATMs and online banking will be open, and banks will process any transactions the following day.

Indoor pools will be closed, but outside pools like those at Idlewild and Traner will be open

Every major retailer, such as Walmart and Target, and major fast food chains like McDonald’s and Starbucks, will be open and operating at their normal hours. It’s important to note that those that operate under an independent franchise and any local businesses will have their own schedules they will be following, so it’s best to call these places to make sure. 

What can you do this Juneteenth in Reno?

The Northern Nevada Black Cultural Awareness Society invites you this Thursday to the J Resort’s Glow Plaza to celebrate their 37th annual Juneteenth event. It runs from Noon to 3pm. More details on the Facebook page.