October 13, 2025 Holiday Guide: Columbus Day vs Indigenous Peoples' Day Across America

Table of Contents

• Federal Holiday Status
• State-by-State Observance
• Columbus Day: History and Significance
• Indigenous Peoples' Day Movement
• What This Means for Work and Business
• How Americans Celebrate
• Frequently Asked Questions

Federal Holiday Status: Columbus Day 2025

October 13, 2025, is officially recognized as Columbus Day, a federal holiday in the United States. This means federal employees receive a paid day off, and most federal offices, including post offices, close for the day. The holiday falls on the second Monday of October each year, creating a three-day weekend for those who observe it. However, unlike major holidays such as Independence Day or Christmas, Columbus Day observance varies dramatically across the country. While it maintains federal status, its recognition at state and local levels has become increasingly fragmented.

What Closes on Columbus Day

Federal institutions that typically close include:

• Federal government offices and agencies
• U.S. Postal Service (no mail delivery)
• Federal courts
• Many banks and credit unions
• Bond markets

What usually remains open:

• Stock exchanges (NYSE, NASDAQ)
• Most retail businesses and restaurants
• Private companies (employer discretion)
• Public transportation (varies by city)

State-by-State Holiday Observance

The landscape of October 13th observance across America is remarkably diverse:

States Observing Columbus Day

Approximately 20 states still officially recognize Columbus Day as a paid state holiday, including:

• Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts
• Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New York
• Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia

States Celebrating Indigenous Peoples' Day

Seventeen states and the District of Columbia now observe Indigenous Peoples' Day instead of or alongside Columbus Day:

• Official replacements: Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, Minnesota, New Mexico, Vermont
• Dual observance: Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, North Carolina, Wisconsin
• Local celebrations: California cities, Oregon municipalities

States with No Official Observance

Several states treat October 13th as a regular working day:

• Delaware (dropped Columbus Day in 2009)
• Florida, Nevada, Texas, Washington
• Wyoming and parts of California

Columbus Day: Historical Background and Significance

Columbus Day became a federal holiday in 1968, signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson, with observance beginning in 1971. The holiday commemorates Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas on October 12, 1492.

Italian-American Heritage Connection

The holiday's establishment was largely driven by Italian-American communities seeking recognition and respect in American society. Organizations like the Knights of Columbus lobbied extensively for federal recognition, viewing Columbus as a symbol of Italian contributions to American history. The timing wasn't coincidental—following incidents of discrimination against Italian Americans in the late 1800s and early 1900s, Columbus Day served as a way to celebrate Italian heritage and integration into American society.

The Shift in Perspective

Over recent decades, historical scholarship has revealed the darker aspects of Columbus's expeditions, including the mistreatment of indigenous populations. This has led to growing calls to reconsider how October 13th should be observed, sparking the Indigenous Peoples' Day movement.

The Indigenous Peoples' Day Movement

Indigenous Peoples' Day emerged as an alternative to Columbus Day, first established in Berkeley, California, in 1992. The movement aims to recognize the history and contributions of Native American peoples while acknowledging the impact of European colonization.

Growing Support

Support for Indigenous Peoples' Day has grown exponentially:

• 1992: Berkeley becomes first city to adopt the alternative
• 2014: Seattle and Minneapolis follow suit
• 2021: President Biden issues first presidential proclamation recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day
• 2024-2025: Several additional states and cities make the switch

Cultural Significance

Indigenous Peoples' Day celebrations often feature:

• Native American cultural performances and art
• Educational programs about tribal history
• Community gatherings and powwows
• Discussions about contemporary Native American issues

What This Means for Work and Business

The divided nature of October 13th observance creates practical complications for employers and employees:

Private Sector Considerations

• Multistate companies must navigate different state policies
• School districts vary widely in their observance
• Retail and service industries typically remain open but may offer holiday pay

Employee Rights

Employees in states that observe either holiday may be entitled to paid time off, depending on their employment contracts and local laws. Federal employees nationwide receive the day off regardless of their state's position.

How Americans Celebrate October 13th

Celebrations vary dramatically depending on location:

Columbus Day Traditions

• Italian-American parades (especially in New York, San Francisco)
• Cultural festivals highlighting Italian heritage
• Educational programs about exploration and discovery
• Community gatherings in Italian-American neighborhoods

Indigenous Peoples' Day Activities

• Native American cultural celebrations
• Educational workshops about tribal history
• Art exhibitions featuring indigenous artists
• Community discussions about social justice

Frequently Asked Questions

Is October 13, 2025, a bank holiday?

Most banks will be closed on October 13, 2025, as Columbus Day is a federal holiday. However, some banks may remain open depending on their location and policies. Check with your specific bank for their hours.

Will mail be delivered on Columbus Day?

No, the U.S. Postal Service does not deliver mail on Columbus Day as it's a federal holiday. Regular mail delivery will resume the following day. UPS and FedEx may operate with modified schedules.

Do all states celebrate the same holiday on October 13th?

No, states vary widely. Some celebrate Columbus Day, others observe Indigenous Peoples' Day, and some treat it as a regular working day. The observance depends on your specific state and local government.

Can employers require employees to work on Columbus Day?

Yes, private employers can generally require employees to work on Columbus Day unless they have contracts or agreements specifying otherwise. However, they may need to provide holiday pay in some jurisdictions.

Why do some states celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day instead?

Many states have shifted to Indigenous Peoples' Day to recognize the history and contributions of Native Americans while acknowledging the negative impact of European colonization on indigenous communities.

Looking Forward: The Future of October 13th

The debate over October 13th continues to evolve, reflecting America's ongoing conversation about history, identity, and inclusivity. Whether your community observes Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples' Day, or treats it as a regular Monday, the holiday serves as a reminder of our nation's complex past and diverse present. As more states and cities reconsider their observance, October 13th will likely remain a day of reflection—whether celebrating exploration and Italian-American heritage or honoring the resilience and contributions of Native American peoples.