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Columbus Day

Columbus Day is celebrated to recognize Christopher Columbus landing in the Americas. Although it is a federal holiday, it is highly controversial considering the deaths that were caused.

Upcoming Dates & Where They Are Celebrated

Columbus Day is a federal holiday. In the state of Florida, it is only a public observation. It is considering a holiday in all but the following states: AK, AR, CA, DE, FL, HI, MI, MN, ND, NV, OR, SD, TX, VT, WA, WI, WY. Here are the upcoming dates for Columbus Day:

  • Monday, October 9, 2017 - Federal Holiday (with the exception of the states listed above)
  • Monday, October 9, 2017 - Local observance in Florida
  • Monday, October 8, 2018 - Federal Holiday (with the exception of the states listed above)
  • Monday, October 8, 2018 - Local observance in Florida
  • Monday, October 14, 2019 - Federal Holiday (with the exception of the states listed above)
  • Monday, October 14, 2019 - Local observance in Florida
  • Monday, October 12, 2020 - Federal Holiday (with the exception of the states listed above)
  • Monday, October 12, 2020 - Local observance in Florida
  • Monday, October 11, 2021 - Federal Holiday (with the exception of the states listed above)
  • Monday, October 11, 2021 - Local observance in Florida
  • Monday, October 10, 2022 - Federal Holiday (with the exception of the states listed above)
  • Monday, October 10, 2022 - Local observance in Florida
  • Monday, October 9, 2023 - Federal Holiday (with the exception of the states listed above)
  • Monday, October 9, 2023 - Local observance in Florida
  • Monday, October 14, 2024 - Federal Holiday (with the exception of the states listed above)
  • Monday, October 14, 2024 - Local observance in Florida
  • Monday, October 13, 2025 - Federal Holiday (with the exception of the states listed above)
  • Monday, October 13, 2025 - Local observance in Florida

Where Is Columbus Day Considered A Holiday?

Columbus Day is considered a federal holiday in many states. However, there are very few buildings that close for observance. Since it is a federal holiday, government offices will likely be closed. In many states, the schools remain open. That is different in some states, so before you start planning a family holiday, make sure to check with your local school district.

Festivities & Events During Columbus Day

The celebrations for Columbus Day have faded over time. Due to the controversy of the holiday. There are some states that still celebrate Columbus Day with traditional festivals and cheers. However, many other states have chosen to celebrate the day in a different way. In fact, they don't celebrate Columbus Day at all. Many favor the celebration of Indigenous People's Day instead, offering appreciation for those who lost their land.

A Brief History Of Columbus Day

Columbus Day celebrates the date Christopher Columbus landed in the Americas in 1492. However, many places choose to no longer celebrate this particular day, considering how controversial it is. While Christopher Columbus is the sole reason the Americas are as we know them today, many recall the indigenous people who lost their land. Therefore, many choose to celebrate Indigenous People's Day in place of Columbus Day.