The second Monday in October is recognized as both Indigenous Peoples Day and Columbus Day in the United States.
In 2022, President Joe Biden issued a proclamation for Indigenous Peoples Day, yet Columbus Day remains a federal holiday. According to a 2023 Pew Research study, Columbus Day is still officially recognized in 16 states.
However, there is a growing trend among states and cities to adopt Indigenous Peoples Day instead, reflecting a shift away from honoring explorers who have traditionally been celebrated. As this year’s Columbus Day approaches, it’s important to understand the evolving nature of this nearly century-old national holiday.
Indigenous Peoples Day and Columbus Day are both observed on Monday, October 14 this year. These holidays are typically celebrated annually on the second Monday of October.
When is Columbus Day?
Columbus Day, along with Indigenous Peoples Day, is observed on Monday, October 14. Both holidays are typically celebrated on the second Monday of October each year.
Why was Columbus Day celebrated?
Columbus Day became a federal holiday in 1937, despite Christopher Columbus’s landing in the Americas in 1492. This designation was influenced by lobbying from the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal organization.
The first observance of the holiday took place in 1792 when New York’s Columbian Order, known as Tammany Hall, commemorated the 300th anniversary of Columbus’s arrival.
A century later, in 1892, President Benjamin Harrison issued a proclamation urging Americans to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s landing.
Here’s what you need to know about what will be open and closed on Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples Day.
Stock Market
Yes, the stock market will be open on Monday, October 14. Both the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq do not recognize Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples Day as a holiday.
No, the U.S. Postal Service recognizes Columbus Day as a holiday, so there will be no regular mail delivery for residential or business addresses, and retail branches will be closed.
However, the USPS will still deliver Priority Mail Express in certain areas, although this service incurs an additional fee.
Banks
Some banks will close in observance of Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples Day, as October 14 is a holiday recognized by the Federal Reserve. Bank of America and Wells Fargo, for example, will be closed.
However, certain banks, like Chase and TD Bank, have announced that they will remain open on October 14.
Walmart
Walmart has informed CBS MoneyWatch that its stores will operate during regular hours on Columbus Day.
Post office
No, the post office’s retail locations will be closed for Columbus Day, and there will be no mail delivery to homes or businesses.
However, individuals can still order shipping supplies through the post office’s website.