Columbus Day: What to Know About the Federal Holiday

Columbus Day is a federal holiday observed on the second Monday of October,.

Calendar date of Columbus Day October 13th — Source: Lee Lawson / Getty

Columbus Day is a federal holiday observed on the second Monday of October, providing many workers a three-day weekend as fall approaches. The day honors Christopher Columbus, the explorer credited with opening the Americas to European exploration.

However, the holiday has become controversial in recent years due to Columbus’ treatment of Indigenous people. As a result, several states and cities have shifted to celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day instead, honoring the history and resilience of Native communities.

President Joe Biden became the first U.S. president to formally recognize Indigenous Peoples Day in 2021, while former President Donald Trump criticized the move, saying it diminished Columbus’ legacy.

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President Trump signed a proclamation on Oct. 9 officially designating Monday, Oct., 13 as Columbus Day. “We’re calling it Columbus Day,” said Trump. “We’re back, Italians.”

What’s Closed for the Holiday: