Columbus Day 2025 will be observed on Monday, October 13, marking the federal holiday that commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus to the Americas. The holiday is celebrated annually on the second Monday of October, and this year’s observance comes with a mix of tradition, evolving cultural perspectives, and practical considerations for millions of Americans.
Federal Holiday Observance
Columbus Day is one of the eleven federal holidays in the United States. As a result, all non-essential federal government offices will close for the day, and federal employees will receive the day off with pay. Many state and local government offices will also observe the holiday, though practices vary widely across the country.
The holiday was first recognized as a federal observance in the 1930s and was later fixed to the second Monday in October through legislation that standardized several federal holidays. While the date historically marked October 12, the modern calendar ensures that Americans can count on a long weekend each year.
What’s Open and What’s Closed on Columbus Day 2025
Knowing which services are available can help individuals and businesses plan ahead. Here’s a clear look at how different sectors will operate this year:
Federal and Government Services
- Federal offices and courts will close nationwide. This includes administrative agencies, federal courts, and non-essential services.
- State and local offices may or may not close depending on the jurisdiction. Some states fully observe Columbus Day as a public holiday, while others treat it as a regular working day or replace it with Indigenous Peoples Day observances.
Postal and Delivery Services
- The U.S. Postal Service will suspend regular mail delivery on October 13. Priority Mail Express may continue in select areas, but standard delivery will pause for the day.
- Private delivery companies such as UPS and FedEx typically maintain modified schedules. Most ground and air services continue, though some offices may adjust pickup times.
Banks and Financial Institutions
- Major banks including Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and others will close their physical branches for the day.
- Online banking and ATMs will remain operational, so customers can still manage accounts digitally or withdraw cash.
- Stock markets such as the NYSE and Nasdaq will remain open, but bond markets will close in observance of the holiday.
Schools
- School closures will vary by region. Some public school districts close for the day, while others remain open and may incorporate classroom discussions or events related to either Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples Day.
- Private institutions and universities set their own schedules, so families should confirm locally.
Retail and Restaurants
- Most grocery stores, restaurants, and major retailers will remain open, often with special holiday promotions. Shopping malls and department stores typically operate on regular or extended schedules.
- Smaller businesses may choose to close or operate reduced hours at their discretion.
Cultural Observances and Evolving Perspectives
Columbus Day 2025 continues to reflect shifting cultural narratives across the United States. While the holiday has traditionally honored the voyage of Christopher Columbus and celebrated Italian-American heritage, the conversation surrounding its meaning has grown more complex in recent decades.
Indigenous Peoples Day
Many states and cities now observe Indigenous Peoples Day on the same date, recognizing the history, cultures, and contributions of Native American communities. Some jurisdictions officially replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day, while others celebrate both.
This dual observance reflects a broader national conversation about how history is remembered and commemorated. While some communities focus on honoring Columbus’s voyage and Italian heritage, others highlight the experiences of Indigenous peoples who lived on the continent long before 1492.
Parades and Local Events
Traditional Columbus Day parades remain a centerpiece in cities with large Italian-American populations. New York, Chicago, and San Francisco are among the places where these parades draw thousands of participants and spectators, featuring floats, marching bands, cultural organizations, and community groups.
Meanwhile, cities that prioritize Indigenous Peoples Day often host educational programs, museum exhibits, cultural performances, and public gatherings focused on Native history and modern Indigenous contributions.
Public Monuments and Symbols
In recent years, some communities have re-evaluated public statues and monuments of Columbus, relocating or contextualizing them within museums or historical sites. Others have chosen to keep these monuments in place while adding plaques that acknowledge the complex legacy of European colonization. These changes often spark lively public debate, illustrating the evolving meaning of the holiday in modern America.
State-by-State Differences
The way Columbus Day 2025 is recognized depends largely on where you live:
- States that fully observe Columbus Day will close state offices, courts, and schools, aligning with federal schedules.
- States that have replaced it with Indigenous Peoples Day may keep offices open or hold alternative ceremonies and educational programs.
- Some states observe both, offering employees the option to take the day as a holiday or participating in events that honor both histories.
Because there is no single nationwide approach beyond the federal level, residents should check their state and local calendars to understand exactly how the day will be marked in their area.
Practical Tips for the Holiday
For individuals and businesses, planning ahead can minimize disruptions and make the most of the long weekend:
- Handle government paperwork early. Many offices will close, so file applications or complete transactions before the holiday.
- Plan banking needs in advance. Deposit checks and transfer funds before the weekend to avoid delays.
- Expect some shipping delays. Adjust mailing timelines to accommodate the postal holiday.
- Participate locally. Whether attending a parade, visiting a museum, or joining community discussions, Columbus Day 2025 offers opportunities to engage with history and culture in meaningful ways.
- Stay informed about school schedules. Families should confirm whether schools are open to plan accordingly.
Why Columbus Day Still Matters
Even amid changing perspectives, Columbus Day 2025 remains a moment of national reflection and cultural expression. For some, it’s a celebration of exploration, immigration, and Italian-American heritage. For others, it’s a time to center Indigenous voices and history that long predates European arrival.
The coexistence of these narratives speaks to the diversity and ongoing evolution of the American story. The holiday continues to provoke conversation, inspire community events, and shape how the nation thinks about its past.
As Columbus Day 2025 arrives, how will you mark the day? Share your thoughts, experiences, or local traditions in the comments below.