Hartford, Conn./WTIC Radio - There are a number of events marking Juneteenth in Connecticut this year.
It's the first time the day is being recognized as a local, state and federal holiday.
All government offices, courts, and most banks are closed.
Juneteenth marks the day the last enslaved people in America were informed of their freedom two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.
In Hartford, there's a gathering from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. in Bushnell Park including live music, food trucks, art and entertainment.
In West Hartford, the celebration takes place from noon until 4:00 p.m. in Blue Back Square.
Other events on Juneteenth are being held in Bloomfield, Enfield, Waterbury and on the green in New Haven.