What’s open, what’s closed on Monday

Columbus Day 2024: On Monday, October 14, 2024, the United States will observe Columbus Day, a federal holiday that is increasingly recognized as Indigenous Peoples Day in many parts of the country. This dual celebration recognizes both the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas and the significant contributions of Native American communities whose history long predates European exploration.

Federal holiday closures

Because Columbus Day remains a federal holiday, state institutions will mark the day with closures. Federal offices, including departments such as the U.S. Department of Education, the Social Security Administration and local post offices, will be closed. However, stock markets, including the Nasdaq and the New York Stock Exchange, will remain open, but bond markets will remain closed for the holiday.

Postal and delivery services

The United States Postal Service (USPS) does not deliver mail or packages on Columbus Day, as it is one of eleven federal holidays that the USPS observes each year. Private courier services such as FedEx and UPS will continue to operate as usual, with minor changes to FedEx Express and FedEx Ground Economy services.

Banking services

Most major banks, including Bank of America, Wells Fargo and Citibank, will remain closed on Columbus Day. However, Chase Bank and TD Bank branches are expected to remain open. Customers are encouraged to use online or mobile banking and ATMs for their financial needs while on vacation.

Retail and business hours

Major retailers such as Target, Walmart and Kroger will remain open during regular business hours. For local shops and businesses, it is advisable to check opening times in advance. Popular chain stores like Costco that are closed on certain holidays will remain open on Columbus Day.

School schedules vary depending on the federal state

School closures for Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day vary by location. While some districts, such as Chicago Public Schools (CPS), are canceling classes to mark Indigenous Peoples Day, other schools may remain open. Parents are encouraged to check with their local school districts to confirm schedules.

Garbage collection and public services

Trash and recycling collection services also vary depending on local guidelines. Some cities, such as Columbus, Ohio, will pause pickups for the holidays, while other communities, such as Cincinnati and Akron, will maintain their regular schedule. Residents are advised to check with their local waste disposal service about any changes.

Government offices and public libraries

Government buildings, including the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), libraries and courts, will be closed to mark the federal holiday. However, certain libraries and public facilities may remain open depending on local jurisdiction.

Indigenous Peoples Day is gaining importance

While Columbus Day remains a federal holiday, there is a growing shift toward recognizing Indigenous Peoples Day, a holiday meant to honor Native American heritage and culture. President Joe Biden has officially recognized Indigenous Peoples Day in 2021, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the historic injustices facing Native American communities. Several states, cities and institutions now celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day either alongside or instead of Columbus Day.

Although Chicago still observes Columbus Day, the city’s public schools adopted Indigenous Peoples Day as a day off following a vote by the Chicago Board of Education in 2019. The city’s annual Columbus Day Parade is still taking place, starting at 11:45 a.m. at State Street and Wacker Drive. Hosted by the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans.

A holiday of evolving traditions

As the country celebrates Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day on October 14, 2024, the ways in which these holidays are celebrated continue to evolve. Whether you want to celebrate the exploration of the Americas or celebrate the rich history of indigenous peoples, it’s important to stay informed about local closures and hours of operation so you can plan accordingly