US Holiday Guide 2025: What to Know About Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day

US Holiday Guide 2025 brings attention to one of America’s most talked-about holiday pairs — Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day, both observed on October 13, 2025. These two holidays share the same date but represent very different parts of U.S. history and culture.

Columbus Day, a federal holiday since 1934, celebrates the 1492 voyage of Italian explorer Christopher Columbus. For generations, it has been a day to honor Italian-American heritage and their contributions to the nation. Parades, community events, and cultural gatherings are held in many cities across the country.

However, over the past few decades, awareness has grown about the impact of colonization on Native American communities. Many people now choose to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead — a day to recognize the history, traditions, and resilience of Native Americans. The shift gained national attention in 2021 when President Joe Biden became the first U.S. president to officially recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

Today, some states celebrate Columbus Day, others observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and many honor both. This reflects the country’s ongoing effort to understand and respect all parts of its history.

As Americans observe the holiday, it’s common to wonder what’s open or closed — from post offices and banks to stock markets and government offices. But beyond schedules and closures, the day offers a chance to reflect on how the nation’s story has evolved.

Whether you spend the day learning about Native heritage, joining a local parade, or simply taking a break, October 13, 2025, stands as a reminder of America’s diverse and shared past.

Why October 13 Tells Two Stories: Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day History

October 13 is an important day in the United States because it marks two different holidays. The first is Columbus Day, which has been celebrated since 1892 and became a federal holiday in 1934. It honors Italian explorer Christopher Columbus and his 1492 voyage to the Americas. For many Italian-Americans, the day is a proud celebration of their heritage and culture, with parades, school events, and community gatherings.

At the same time, Indigenous Peoples’ Day has grown in importance. Officially recognized by President Joe Biden in 2021, it honors Native American communities. The day remembers their traditions, history, and resilience. It also recognizes the challenges and hardships they faced after European colonization.

Today, some states celebrate Columbus Day, others celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and a few recognize both. This shows how America’s understanding of its history is changing. October 13 is more than just a holiday—it is a day to learn, reflect, and respect different stories. Whether people celebrate Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, or both, the day encourages awareness and understanding of America’s diverse history.

Columbus Day vs Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Two Perspectives of American History :

October 13 tells two very different stories about America. Columbus Day honors Italian explorer Christopher Columbus and his 1492 voyage to the Americas. For many Italian-Americans, it is a day of pride, heritage, and tradition. People celebrate with parades, school programs, and community events that focus on discovery and contributions of Italian immigrants.

At the same time, Indigenous Peoples’ Day remembers the history, culture, and resilience of Native American communities. It recognizes the hardships they faced after European colonization, including displacement and cultural loss. Many states and cities now observe this day to honor Native heritage and teach people about America’s first inhabitants.

Although both holidays fall on the same date, they represent very different perspectives. Columbus Day focuses on exploration and immigrant pride, while Indigenous Peoples’ Day emphasizes awareness, respect, and remembrance. Some states celebrate one, some celebrate the other, and some recognize both. Together, the two holidays show the complexity of America’s history. October 13 is more than a holiday—it is a chance to reflect, learn, and appreciate the many stories that have shaped the nation.

US Holiday Today: Banks, Shipping, and Government Offices on October 13 :

On October 13, 2025, the U.S. observes both Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which affects banks, shipping, and government offices. Most banks, like Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, Citibank, PNC, and Truist, will be closed for the holiday. Some, such as Capital One Cafes, may stay open for limited services.

Post offices will also be closed, and regular mail delivery will not happen. Only Priority Mail Express will still run. Shipping services like UPS and FedEx will continue their pickups and deliveries, and their offices will stay open, so packages can still move without delays.

Government offices at the federal level are closed for Columbus Day. Local or state offices may vary depending on whether they observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

For those planning errands or shopping, it’s best to check schedules in advance. The stock market will stay open, but the bond market will be closed. Overall, some services pause for the holiday, while others operate normally, giving people a chance to celebrate or reflect without major disruptions.

Disclaimer –  This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available sources. All opinions and statements belong to their respective authors or sources.

Modern Meaning of October 13: History, Awareness, and Respect for All :

October 13 is more than just a holiday. It is a day to remember history, respect different cultures, and honor all communities. Columbus Day celebrates Christopher Columbus and Italian-American heritage, while Indigenous Peoples’ Day focuses on the traditions and resilience of Native American communities. Together, they show the importance of seeing history from different perspectives.

Many people use the day to learn about the past and take part in cultural events or community programs. Schools often teach students about both Columbus’ voyages and the contributions and struggles of Indigenous peoples. Local celebrations may include parades, workshops, and cultural exhibitions, blending pride, education, and remembrance.

Today, October 13 is a chance to balance celebration with reflection. It encourages Americans to understand multiple stories, respect diverse communities, and appreciate the lessons of history. By recognizing both holidays, people can promote unity, cultural awareness, and learning. October 13 reminds everyone that respecting different voices and learning from the past is important for building a fairer and more inclusive society.

 

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