Columbus Day 2025 in the United States

Columbus Day, observed on the second Monday in October, commemorates Christopher Columbus's 1492 landing in the Americas. Originally intended to celebrate his historic voyage, the day has become a time for discussions on history, Indigenous perspectives, and the impact of European exploration on Native communities.

Columbus Day: A Public Holiday?

Columbus Day is a federal public holiday in the United States. Most businesses, offices, and schools are closed, allowing citizens to take part in parades, historical reenactments, and community events nationwide. However, closures for businesses, offices, and schools vary widely across the country, with some areas, especially states and cities that observe Indigenous Peoples' Day instead, choosing to remain open.

Columbus Day

Columbus Day commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492, a date often remembered as the beginning of European exploration and colonization in the New World. The holiday was first celebrated by Italian-Americans in the late 18th century as a way to honor Columbus's Italian heritage and recognize his achievements. Over time, Columbus became a symbol of exploration and national pride. In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt officially made Columbus Day a national holiday. Since then, it has been observed on the second Monday in October across the United States.

Columbus Day Celebration in the USA

In the United States, Columbus Day is celebrated in different ways. Many communities hold parades, especially in cities with large Italian-American populations, such as New York City and San Francisco. Parades often feature floats, marching bands, and groups dressed in traditional Italian attire. Historical reenactments of Columbus's landing, as well as educational events in schools, bring attention to his journey and the impact of his voyages. Some people also use the holiday as a chance to reflect on the broader history of exploration and immigration in America. Additionally, some areas observe Indigenous Peoples' Day on the same date, shifting the focus to honoring Native American heritage and acknowledging the effects of colonization on Indigenous communities.

Columbus Day has a vital role in American history as it represents exploration, the spirit of discovery, and the contributions of Italian-Americans to the country's cultural fabric. However, the day also invites reflection and discussions about the impact of European colonization on Native American communities. In recent years, many people have called for a more inclusive approach, recognizing both Columbus's role in history and the resilience and contributions of Indigenous peoples. This dual observance encourages Americans to look at history from multiple perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of the country's complex heritage. By honoring the achievements and learning from the consequences of Columbus's arrival, Americans gain a more comprehensive view of their shared past.

Columbus Day Observances