What's Open, Closed on Columbus Day & Indigenous Peoples' Day 2024?
Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day fall on Monday, October 14, 2024. This year, as in many others, the day brings up questions about what's open and closed, as the holiday is observed in various ways across the country.
Here's a breakdown:
Federal Government:
- Federal offices: Closed.
- Schools: Vary by district. Some will be closed, while others may be in session. Check your local school district for specific information.
- Post Offices: Closed. No mail delivery.
- Banks: Closed.
State and Local Governments:
- State Offices: The observance of the holiday varies by state. Some states observe Columbus Day, while others observe Indigenous Peoples' Day or both. Check your state government website for specific information.
- Local Offices: Similar to state offices, local government offices and courts may be closed. Check local websites for specific information.
Businesses:
- Retail Stores: Most large retailers will remain open.
- Banks: Generally closed.
- Financial Markets: Closed.
- Grocery Stores: Most will be open, but hours may vary.
- Restaurants: Most will be open, but hours may vary.
Transportation:
- Public Transportation: Service may be reduced or follow a holiday schedule. Check with your local transportation authority for specifics.
- Airports: Open, but flight schedules may be affected.
Important Considerations:
- Check with individual businesses: Even within a category, some stores or businesses may observe the holiday while others do not. It's always best to check directly with the business you plan to visit.
- Prepare for possible crowds: Many people take advantage of the long weekend to travel or shop, so expect potential crowds.
- Consider the impact on services: Be aware that certain services, such as trash collection or library hours, may be affected.
It's worth noting that the way this holiday is observed is evolving. More and more localities are transitioning from celebrating Columbus Day to recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day, which reflects a growing awareness of the history and contributions of Native American peoples.
No matter how you observe the day, we encourage you to learn more about the history and culture of Native American peoples. It's a chance to celebrate their resilience and to reflect on our shared history.
