What's Closed for Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day in 2025?
Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day, observed on the second Monday in October—October 13 in 2025—are holidays that spark varied recognition across the United States. While Columbus Day has historically commemorated Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492, Indigenous Peoples' Day honors the histories, cultures, and contributions of Native American and Indigenous communities. The dual nature of the holiday leads to a patchwork of closures and observances depending on federal, state, local, and private sector policies. Below, we explore what’s typically closed, what remains open, and how the evolving recognition of these holidays shapes the day.
Federal Government Closures
Columbus Day is one of the 11 federal holidays recognized by the U.S. government, and as such, most federal offices and services are closed. This includes:
Federal Offices: Agencies like the Social Security Administration, Department of Motor Vehicles (for federal services), and federal courthouses shut down. Employees receive a paid day off.
U.S. Postal Service (USPS): Post offices are closed, and no regular mail delivery occurs, though some priority or express services may still operate.
Federal Banks: Many banks regulated by the Federal Reserve, such as Bank of America or Wells Fargo, close, as Columbus Day is a Federal Reserve holiday. However, online banking and ATMs remain accessible.
Indigenous Peoples' Day, while increasingly recognized by some federal entities (e.g., through presidential proclamations), is not a federal holiday. Therefore, closures tied specifically to Indigenous Peoples' Day at the federal level are minimal unless a state or locality mandates it.
State and Local Government Closures
The recognition of Columbus Day versus Indigenous Peoples' Day varies widely by state and municipality, affecting closures:
States Recognizing Columbus Day: States like New York, Ohio, and Florida officially observe Columbus Day, meaning state offices, courts, and some public services (e.g., DMVs) are closed. In these areas, government employees typically receive a paid holiday.
States Recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day: Over 15 states, including California, Minnesota, and Alaska, have replaced or supplemented Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day. In these states, state offices may close for the holiday under this name, though the practical impact on closures mirrors Columbus Day observances.
Hybrid or Dual Recognition: Some states, like Oregon and Washington, recognize both holidays or emphasize Indigenous Peoples' Day while retaining Columbus Day as a state holiday. Closures depend on local policies, but state offices are generally closed in these regions.
Non-Observing States: A few states, such as Hawaii (which observes Discoverers’ Day instead) and South Dakota (which celebrates Native American Day), have unique holidays that may lead to similar closures of state offices and services.
Local governments often follow state guidelines, but cities like Seattle, Minneapolis, and Los Angeles, which prioritize Indigenous Peoples' Day, may close municipal offices, libraries, and community centers. Check with your local government for specific closures, as policies vary.
Schools and Educational Institutions
School closures depend on the district and state:
Public Schools: In states or districts recognizing Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples' Day, public schools are often closed. For example, New York City public schools close for Columbus Day, while schools in Seattle may close for Indigenous Peoples' Day. Some districts remain open, especially in areas where neither holiday is emphasized.
Colleges and Universities: Public universities in states observing either holiday may cancel classes or close administrative offices. Private institutions, like Ivy League schools, vary—some remain open, while others, like Harvard, may close for Indigenous Peoples' Day in alignment with local values.
Private Schools: These institutions set their own calendars. Many follow local public school schedules, but some remain open, especially if they prioritize academic continuity over the holiday.
Parents and students should check school calendars, as observances differ widely.
Private Sector and Businesses
The private sector’s approach to Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day is inconsistent:
Banks and Financial Institutions: Major banks like Chase, Citibank, and Wells Fargo typically close, aligning with the Federal Reserve’s holiday schedule. However, some credit unions or smaller banks may remain open, especially in states that de-emphasize Columbus Day.
Retail and Grocery Stores: Most retail chains, such as Walmart, Target, and Costco, stay open, as do grocery stores like Kroger or Whole Foods. These businesses often capitalize on the holiday with sales, especially in regions where Columbus Day is a shopping event.
Restaurants and Hospitality: Restaurants, cafes, and bars generally remain open, with some offering themed promotions for either holiday. Fast-food chains and national franchises like Starbucks or McDonald’s operate as usual.
Stock Markets: The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ remain open, as Columbus Day is not a market holiday. Bond markets, however, may close or have shortened hours.
Private Employers: Most private companies do not offer a paid day off, though some, particularly in progressive areas or industries like tech, may grant leave for Indigenous Peoples' Day or Columbus Day, depending on their values or location.
Public Services and Transportation
Public services and transportation schedules vary:
Public Transit: In major cities like New York or Chicago, buses and subways typically run on regular schedules, though some systems (e.g., Boston’s MBTA) may operate on a modified holiday schedule. Rural transit systems in states observing the holiday may have reduced service.
Trash and Recycling Pickup: Municipal waste collection may be delayed in areas where government offices close. For example, cities like Columbus, Ohio, often push pickup to the next day.
Libraries and Community Centers: Public libraries and recreation centers may close in jurisdictions recognizing either holiday, though some remain open for community events, especially those celebrating Indigenous cultures.
Cultural and Community Observances
The shift toward Indigenous Peoples' Day has led to unique observances that may affect local operations:
Indigenous Peoples' Day Events: In cities like Denver or San Francisco, cultural events, parades, or educational programs may lead to temporary road closures or increased public transit use. Museums or cultural centers may host special exhibits, with some offering free admission.
Columbus Day Parades: In areas with strong Italian-American communities, like New York City or Philadelphia, Columbus Day parades may disrupt traffic or public services. These events often draw large crowds, impacting local businesses and transit.
What’s Open?
Despite closures, many services remain operational:
Hospitals and Emergency Services: Hospitals, urgent care centers, and emergency services (police, fire, EMS) operate as usual.
Airports and Airlines: Airports remain open, and flights run on regular schedules, though travelers should check for potential delays due to local events.
Pharmacies and Convenience Stores: Chains like CVS, Walgreens, and 7-Eleven typically stay open, though some locations may have reduced hours.
National Parks and Recreation: National parks remain open, though visitor centers or ranger-led programs may be limited in areas observing the federal holiday.
Regional Variations and Trends
The debate over Columbus Day versus Indigenous Peoples' Day reflects evolving cultural priorities. In 2021, President Biden issued the first federal proclamation recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day, but Columbus Day remains the official federal holiday. By 2025, over 200 cities and 15 states have adopted Indigenous Peoples' Day, either replacing or supplementing Columbus Day. This shift influences closures, with progressive areas more likely to close for Indigenous Peoples' Day and traditional regions sticking with Columbus Day.
For example:
Northeast: States like New York and Massachusetts often close for Columbus Day, with parades celebrating Italian-American heritage.
West Coast: California and Oregon prioritize Indigenous Peoples' Day, with closures reflecting this focus and events highlighting Native voices.
Midwest and South: Observances vary, with some states like Ohio maintaining Columbus Day and others, like Minnesota, emphasizing Indigenous Peoples' Day.
How to Stay Informed
To determine specific closures in your area:
Check Government Websites: Federal, state, or local government websites list holiday schedules.
Contact Schools or Employers: Confirm with your school district or workplace for their policy.
Monitor Local News: Parades or events may affect transit or business hours.
Use Online Tools: Websites like usps.com or bank websites often post holiday closure notices.
Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day in 2025 bring a mix of closures and activity, shaped by geography, culture, and policy. Federal offices, many banks, and some state and local services close, while retail, restaurants, and emergency services largely remain open. The growing recognition of Indigenous Peoples' Day adds complexity, with cultural events and local observances influencing schedules. Whether you’re planning errands, travel, or participation in holiday events, checking local policies and schedules is key to navigating the day.
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