SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) – June 19th, or Juneteenth, marks the emancipation of slavery in the United States. The day is both a federally and state-recognized holiday here in South Dakota. 

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While most city offices will be closed to commemorate the day, there are a few celebrations across the state as well. 

Brookings

Thursday, June 19 from 5-8 p.m. 

Brookings’ 6th annual Juneteenth Celebration is in Pioneer Park on Thursday evening. The event includes live music, a community drum circle, lawn activities and food vendors. It is free to attend, besides any food purchased. 

Sioux Falls

Saturday, June 21 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Sioux Falls Juneteenth event will be a “family reunion” style cookout this year. The event is at Fawick Park and will feature music from local performers and food sponsored by Roy’zzz. This event is also free to attend. 

Rapid City

Saturday, June 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

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Rapid City’s third annual Juneteenth Celebration is on Saturday at the Black Hills Performing Arts Center. The vendor fair is from 9 a.m. to noon and features community service organizations and BIPOC owned local businesses. 

Joyce Jefferson will give a presentation on three black women pioneering in the Black Hills at 11 a.m. Lunch is catered by KZ’s BBQ from 12-1 p.m. The community talent showcase is from 2-4 p.m. The event is free for the public. 

Closures

Gov. Kristi Noem officially recognized Juneteenth as a state holiday in 2022. All state offices and administrative buildings will be closed on Thursday. 

City offices in Sioux Falls, Brookings, Watertown, Rapid City, Vermillion, Mitchell and more will be closed. 

Most banks are also closed for federal holidays.