Columbus Day, widely recognized as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, is observed annually in October as a federal holiday in the United States. This year, it falls on Monday, October 13. The holiday is a time for reflection and commemoration, marking the arrival of Italian explorer Christopher Columbus in the New World on October 12, 1492. However, it also serves as a reminder of the histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples and their ancestors who inhabited America long before European explorers arrived.
As with many federal holidays, the observance of Columbus Day brings about various changes in schedules and services nationwide. While federal offices and many employees in the public sector receive a paid day off, not all services are affected uniformly across the country.
For stock market watchers, the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq remain open for trading on Columbus Day, facilitating market activities despite the holiday. As usual, these markets operate Monday through Friday, excluding select holidays.
The U.S. Postal Service will not deliver mail on Columbus Day, as it is a federal holiday; however, USPS Priority Mail service will continue to operate. In terms of package deliveries, services such as FedEx and UPS will have limited operations. While FedEx Office locations may operate on reduced hours, FedEx Freight and certain other services will still be available. Similarly, UPS Store locations will remain open, and deliveries will be conducted as scheduled.
Banks, following the federal holiday calendar, will be closed on Columbus Day. Although in-person services will be unavailable, customers will still have access to ATMs and digital banking platforms for their financial transactions.
The observance of Columbus Day also impacts waste collection services, but the schedule varies significantly from city to city. For instance, in Columbus, Ohio, garbage pickup is suspended for the holiday. In contrast, cities like Cincinnati and Canton operate on a normal schedule, with garbage collection continuing as usual. Residents are encouraged to consult local government websites to confirm specific trash collection timings.
Educational institutions also observe the holiday, with most schools closing for the day. However, closures can differ based on state regulations and local school district policies, so parents and students should verify with their respective school districts.
In summary, the observance of Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day is marked by a mix of closures and continued services. As traditions evolve, discussions surrounding the significance of the holiday and its dual namesake reflect the diverse perspectives of the American populace.
