The history of Juneteenth and how it became a federal holiday

Today, the nation observes Juneteenth, a day commemorating when the last enslaved people in the U.S. found out they were free. Events are planned across the country to mark the fifth year since June 19 became a federal holiday.

WATCH: Milwaukee Juneteenth celebration special coverage

FOX6 News honored Juneteenth with a full day of dedicated coverage starting with a special edition of WakeUp on Friday, June 19.

Milwaukee Juneteenth garbage, Water Works changes; what to know

The Milwaukee Department of Public Works will be modifying certain operations for Juneteenth. Here's a list of changes that residents need to know.

What's open and closed on Juneteenth 2026

Juneteenth occurs on Friday, June 19, which means some business operations will be impacted by the holiday. Here’s what to expect in your area.

Wisconsin Juneteenth flag raised; paid holiday debate continues

Gov. Tony Evers raised the Juneteenth flag over the Wisconsin State Capitol on Wednesday, June 17, as debate continues over making the observance a paid state holiday.

Most patriotic states in America revealed ahead of July 4

Which state is the most patriotic in America? New rankings based on military participation, voter turnout, and volunteerism put one state at the top of the list.

Juneteenth sparks questions of financial freedom in Black community

With Juneteenth – a federal holiday recognizing Black liberation and the end of slavery in the United States two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed– coming up on Friday, the disconnect between financial equality and Black Americans is still at large.

2026 Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant in Milwaukee
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Juneteenth is less than two weeks away and the City of Milwaukee has already begun celebrating. FOX6's Mary Stoker Smith hosted the annual Scholarship Pageant on Saturday at the Northcott Neighborhood House.

Volunteers needed for Milwaukee's Juneteenth celebration
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Juneteenth is just around the corner, and organizers are seeking volunteers ahead of Milwaukee’s annual celebration of freedom.  Volunteer committee chair Frank Harris stopped by the studio to talk about the need for community support and ways people can get involved.

Watch live events from across the country on Memorial Day

Memorial Day 2026 ceremonies and parades honoring fallen U.S. service members will stream live nationwide on LiveNOW from FOX.

What’s open and closed on Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a federal holiday, which means some business operations are affected. Here's what to expect.

Golden Gals MKE kick off parade season during Memorial Day weekend
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Golden Gals MKE are ready for their summer parade season! The ladies joined us in studio to talk new dance routines, sparkly outfits, and a busy parade lineup. 

Wisconsin driving, boating summer safety reminders; what to know

WisDOT and the Wisconsin DNR have reminders for drivers and boaters to stay safe and protect the environment as summer boating season ramps up.

This or That: Pick 'n Save showcases smart options for your Memorial Day menu
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If you're looking for some delicious additions to your Memorial Day menu, we've got you covered!  Emilie Williamson from Pick 'n Save and Metro Market joins us for a game of "This or That" featuring easy and nutritious options. 

What is 'Murph'? Memorial Day workout honoring fallen Navy SEAL becomes national tribute

Memorial Day is observed across the United States as a time to honor fallen service members, with many Americans paying tribute by completing the challenging “Murph" workout.

Wisconsin state parks open Memorial Day weekend; here's what to know

Wisconsin state parks and other public lands are open for Memorial Day weekend, and the DNR has tips and reminders for everyone.

The meaning of Memorial Day - Remembering America’s fallen service members

Memorial Day is one of the most widely observed federal holidays in the United States, but its original purpose was never intended to be celebratory. 

Memorial Day 2026: Here’s what’s open and closed

Whether you need a last-minute grocery run for your backyard barbecue or are locking down your holiday weekend plans, here is a complete guide to what’s open and closed in your area this Memorial Day.

Waukesha Memorial Day march set after volunteers answer the call

VFW 721 says it has enough volunteers for Waukesha’s Memorial Day march after a FOX6 story, while volunteers placed flags at veterans’ graves at Prairie Home Cemetery.

July 3rd Drone Show; Milwaukee County Parks in search of vendors

Milwaukee County Parks is in need of vendors for the Independence Day Drone Show on Friday, July 3, at McKinley Park.