⚓ Columbus Day Countdown
October 12, 2026
About Columbus Day
Columbus Day is a federal holiday observed on the second Monday of October, commemorating Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Bahamas on October 12, 1492 — an event that marked the beginning of sustained European contact with the Americas. Columbus, an Italian explorer sailing under the Spanish crown, made four voyages to the Americas. The holiday was first celebrated in New York City in 1792 on the 300th anniversary of Columbus's voyage, and became a federal holiday in 1937. It has long been especially significant to Italian-American communities, who view Columbus — as a fellow Italian — as a source of cultural pride.
Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day
The holiday has become increasingly controversial as awareness has grown about the devastating impact of European colonization on Indigenous peoples — including disease, forced labor, displacement, and violence. More than 20 states and hundreds of cities and counties now officially observe the second Monday of October as Indigenous Peoples' Day rather than (or alongside) Columbus Day, celebrating Native American history, culture, and contributions. South Dakota was the first state to replace Columbus Day entirely with Native Americans' Day in 1990. The federal holiday name has not been changed by Congress, but the cultural conversation around it continues to evolve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Columbus Day the same as Indigenous Peoples' Day?
They fall on the same date — the second Monday of October. Columbus Day is the name of the federal holiday. Indigenous Peoples' Day is the name adopted by many states, cities, and institutions to recognize and honor Native American peoples. Some jurisdictions observe both names; others have fully replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day in their official calendars.
When is Columbus Day each year?
Columbus Day always falls on the second Monday of October, between October 8 and October 14. Columbus's actual landing date was October 12, 1492, but the holiday was moved to a Monday by the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968.
Is Columbus Day a bank holiday?
Yes, Columbus Day is a federal holiday, so federal government offices and most banks are closed. The US stock markets remain open on Columbus Day, unlike most other federal holidays. Many schools and businesses also remain open, making it one of the less universally observed federal holidays.
Did Columbus actually reach North America?
No. Columbus's four voyages took him to the Caribbean islands, Central America, and the northern coast of South America — he never reached the North American mainland. He landed first in the Bahamas (which he called San Salvador), then Cuba, Hispaniola, and various other Caribbean and Central American locations. The first documented European to reach mainland North America after the Norse was likely John Cabot in 1497.