On Monday, October 13, two distinct holidays—Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day—will be observed, igniting discussions about heritage and history across the nation. Columbus Day, a federal holiday since 1892, honors the legacy of Christopher Columbus and is celebrated primarily through parades showcasing Italian-American culture. In contrast, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, proclaimed by former President Joe Biden in 2021, seeks to recognize the historical injustices faced by Native Americans. While it is not a federal holiday, many states and cities have embraced it, reflecting a growing awareness and acknowledgment of Indigenous rights.
As people prepare for these dual observances, it is essential to understand what services will be available on this day. All U.S. post offices will close for retail transactions, with no regular residential or business mail deliveries taking place. However, Priority Mail Express remains available year-round, even on federal holidays.
In the banking sector, major institutions such as Capital One, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, PNC, Truist, Citibank, and JPMorgan Chase will close their branches. Notably, Capital One Cafes will remain open. Conversely, shipping services such as UPS and FedEx will operate as usual, with both pickup and delivery services available. UPS Store locations and FedEx Office outlets will also be open, ensuring that shipping and printing needs can still be met fully.
The financial markets will operate regularly on October 13. While stock markets will remain open as they do not recognize federal holidays, the U.S. bond market will close in observance of the day. This marks a return to routine trading after the Labor Day closure, with the next significant holiday break scheduled for Thanksgiving on November 27.
On the governmental front, most federal and state offices, along with courts, will be closed due to Columbus Day’s status as a federal holiday. This closure may also influence local public services, including trash collection, which could vary by area.
For those looking to shop or dine out, most grocery stores, restaurants, and retail establishments are expected to operate as usual. Still, it’s advisable to verify with individual businesses for specific hours on this day.
The coexistence of Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day highlights an ongoing dialogue about historical narratives and cultural recognition in America. As more communities choose to celebrate both days, it has opened avenues for reflection and discussion surrounding the impacts of colonization, cultural appreciation, and the diverse histories that shape the nation today.
