Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day, both observed on October 9, 2023, bring about numerous closures across various services and institutions in the United States.
The day is marked by a mix of celebrations and reflections, but it also results in altered schedules for key services. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what’s closed on this day:
Federal and Local Government Offices
Federal government offices, including agencies like the Social Security Administration and Internal Revenue Service, remain closed on Columbus Day. This closure extends to many state and local government offices as well. While not all states recognize Columbus Day as a public holiday, those that do will typically close their offices, including city halls, county clerk offices, and public utilities offices.
U.S. Postal Service (USPS)
As a federally recognized holiday, Columbus Day sees the complete closure of U.S. Postal Service branches. This means no mail delivery will occur, and post offices across the country will remain closed. However, other package delivery services like UPS and FedEx may operate on modified schedules, with limited services in some areas.
Banks and Financial Institutions
Most major banks, including Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, will remain closed on Columbus Day. However, some smaller local banks and credit unions may choose to stay open. ATM services will, of course, remain available to customers, though in-person banking services won’t be accessible.
Retail Stores and Shopping Centers
Retailers often use the holiday as an opportunity for sales events, so most retail stores, including large chains like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy, remain open on Columbus Day. Malls and shopping centers typically stay open, operating on regular hours or even extending their schedules for holiday shopping. Some small businesses may choose to close for the day, depending on local traditions.
Public Schools and Universities
The closure of educational institutions on Columbus Day largely depends on the location. In some states, public schools and universities close in recognition of Columbus Day, while in others, especially where Indigenous Peoples’ Day is more commonly observed, schools remain open. Schools in states like New York, Illinois, and California are more likely to close, while states like Hawaii and South Dakota, which focus on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, may keep their schools running.
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Libraries
Most public libraries follow federal holidays, meaning they will be closed on Columbus Day. This includes closures for events and services like book borrowing, reading rooms, and public-use computers. Some libraries may extend their due dates or allow online services to remain available during the closure.
Public Transportation
Public transit services, such as buses and trains, usually operate on a modified schedule during federal holidays. This could mean less frequent service, shorter hours, or weekend schedules being implemented. It’s important for commuters to check their local transit authority’s schedule before traveling on Columbus Day to avoid inconvenience.
National Parks
Columbus Day presents a great opportunity for families to visit national parks across the country. Fortunately, most national parks remain open on federal holidays. However, visitor centers and other services within the parks may have reduced hours or be closed entirely.
Visitors are encouraged to check the National Park Service website or contact the park they plan to visit to confirm availability of services.
Grocery Stores and Supermarkets
Unlike federal institutions, grocery stores and supermarkets, including chains like Kroger, Safeway, and Whole Foods, typically remain open on Columbus Day. Some locations might adjust their hours, but the majority of grocery stores operate normally to accommodate the needs of shoppers preparing for holiday meals or gatherings.
Restaurants and Cafes
Many restaurants and cafes remain open on Columbus Day, particularly those located in tourist areas or within shopping districts. Popular chains like McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Chipotle are generally open for business, but smaller, locally owned establishments may choose to close or reduce their hours. It’s always a good idea to call ahead if you plan to dine out at a specific location.
Trash Collection and Other Public Services
In many areas, trash collection services are halted for Columbus Day, with pickups being delayed by a day. This can vary depending on the locality, so residents are encouraged to check with their local waste management service for updated schedules. Other public services like street cleaning and park maintenance may also be limited.
Cultural Significance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day
While Columbus Day remains a federal holiday, Indigenous Peoples’ Day has gained traction across the country as an alternative celebration. This day honors the history and cultures of Native American communities, providing a counter-narrative to Columbus’s legacy. States like Maine, New Mexico, and Vermont officially recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Columbus Day, and many cities and communities across the U.S. have followed suit in recent years.
This shift reflects a growing movement to acknowledge the impact of European colonization on Native American populations, including the violence, displacement, and cultural erasure that followed Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. Indigenous Peoples’ Day events typically include educational programs, cultural celebrations, and protests, highlighting the resilience and contributions of Indigenous communities throughout history.
Conclusion
Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day mark a significant time of reflection, celebration, and closures in the United States. Whether it’s recognizing the complex history behind Columbus’s legacy or honoring the contributions of Native American cultures, this holiday brings with it a unique mix of cultural significance and logistical impacts. With closures across federal institutions, altered public transportation schedules, and retail sales, understanding what’s open and closed on this day is key to planning activities and paying tribute to the holiday’s evolving meaning.
FAQs
- Is USPS closed on Columbus Day?
Yes, the U.S. Postal Service closes on Columbus Day, with no mail delivery or service at post offices. - Are banks open on Columbus Day?
Most major banks are closed on Columbus Day, though some local banks or credit unions may stay open. - Do schools close on Columbus Day?
Many public schools close for Columbus Day, but this can vary depending on the state or district. - Is public transportation available on Columbus Day?
Public transit services typically operate on a modified or weekend schedule during Columbus Day. - Are grocery stores open on Columbus Day?
Yes, most grocery stores and supermarkets remain open on Columbus Day, though hours may vary. - What’s the difference between Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
Columbus Day commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas, while Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors Native American communities and their history.
