Columbus Day, known by many as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, is a well-known federal holiday in the United States. Every second Monday of October, Americans observe this day, which in 2024 falls on October 14th.
Whether you’re curious about what’s open and closed or wondering, “Is Columbus Day a federal holiday?”, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know.
Is Columbus Day a Federal Holiday?
Columbus Day is more than just a day off; it’s one of the eleven federal holidays officially recognized by the U.S. Government. All non-essential federal offices close their doors, giving federal employees a paid day off to commemorate Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. This tradition has been observed since 1937, reflecting its historical significance.
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But Columbus Day isn’t just a federal holiday. Many now also celebrate it as Indigenous Peoples’ Day to acknowledge the contributions and culture of Native American communities that existed long before Columbus set sail.
What’s Open and Closed on Columbus Day?
When it comes to whether Columbus Day is a bank holiday, the answer is yes—most federal banks and their branches will be closed. However, you can still access services through ATMs and online banking platforms. This means you won’t be completely stranded if you need to manage your finances on that day.
Public schools and educational institutions have a varied approach to Columbus Day. School closures often depend on the state or school district, so it’s wise to check your local school district’s website to know if classes will be in session.
Postal Services and Other Deliveries
The USPS mail services will come to a halt on Columbus Day, leaving your mailbox empty. But don’t worry! FedEx and UPS will continue their usual delivery operations. If you’re expecting a package or need to send one, these services have got you covered.
Trash Pickup, Retail, and Restaurant Operations
One of the more confusing aspects of this holiday can be the trash and recycling services. In Columbus, trash pickup is paused, while in cities like Cincinnati and Akron, it continues as normal. Always check your local service provider to confirm your area’s schedule.
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When it comes to eating out or shopping, you’ll find that most restaurants and retail stores remain open on Columbus Day. Some might have modified hours, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead. The stock market also stays open, ensuring that financial activities aren’t entirely put on hold.
Future Columbus Day Dates to Remember
Mark your calendars for the upcoming Columbus Days:
- 2025: Monday, October 13th
- 2026: Monday, October 12th
- 2027: Monday, October 11th
- 2028: Monday, October 9th
- 2029: Monday, October 8th
This predictable pattern makes it easy to plan for the future, especially if you’re looking forward to a long weekend or need to prepare your business operations in advance.
While the Columbus day federal holiday officially falls on a Monday, when the date coincides with a weekend, the holiday observance shifts. For example, if it falls on a Saturday, it’s observed on the preceding Friday, and if it falls on a Sunday, it’s celebrated the following Monday. This flexible scheduling ensures that federal employees still enjoy their well-deserved day off.
The Columbus day federal holiday is a day of mixed emotions and traditions, celebrated differently across the country. Whether you’re observing it as Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the impact of this day is significant, with closures affecting federal services, banks, and educational institutions. But even amid these changes, many businesses, restaurants, and services continue to operate.
