06/19/2026
Happy Juneteenth! In solidarity the Lightspring team is observing this holiday and not working today. Enjoy Juneteenth celebrations, such as this in Mandan, ND.
A Bismarck-Mandan Juneteenth celebration will be held Friday to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.
The free event, which is in its fourth year, runs from 5-9 p.m. at Dykshoorn Park, 511 W. Main St. in Mandan.
The event will feature speakers, live music, dancing, food and various activities for all ages, including face-painting and kids games. There is also set to be informational elements to the event, where attendees can learn about the history and meaning of Juneteenth.
"For generations, most Americans never learned that eslaved people in Texas didn't find out they were free until June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation," Ambe said. "That gap got left out of the story we tell ourselves. And when something gets left out long enough, it's easy for a community to assume that history, and the people connected to it, simply aren't part of their story either."
Juneteenth is a federal holiday. The North Dakota Legislature in 2021 passed and Gov. Doug Burgum signed a bipartisan bill recognizing Juneteenth as a ceremonial holiday. That means it's recognized by the state but is not an official paid holiday for state employees.
~ Bismarck Tribune
