Columbus Day 2026: Christopher Columbus never landed in mainland US. So why is there a federal holiday for him?

Columbus Day, officially recognized in many states and municipalities as Indigenous Peoples' Day in the United States, is being observed nationwide on Monday, October 12, 2026. Designated as one of the nation's 11 statutory federal holidays, Columbus Day brings closure of federal institutions, courthouse complexes, and traditional banking channels. But you would be surprised to know that the American origins of Columbus Day, a federal holiday established in 1937, show us that the modern celebration has less to do with Christopher Columbus and his voyages to the Caribbean.

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Christopher Columbus never set his foot in the US

Historical records suggest that Christopher Columbus never set foot in the continental United States. His journey to the Western Hemisphere occurred 284 years before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Students are often taught in schools that Columbus discovered America in 1492 and he also proved that the Earth was round. But the truth is both the claims are myth. His voyages across the Atlantic changed world history, but he never set foot on mainland North America and died believing he had reached Asia. Columbus' four voyages from Spain, in 1492, 1493, 1498 and 1502, played an important role in establishing lasting connections between Europe and the Americas.


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Columbus never proved that the Earth was round

Yes, you read that right. Columbus never proved that the Earth was round, but how far he would have to sail across the Atlantic to reach Asia. Columbus landed on islands in the Caribbean in 1492, including territory in the present-day Bahamas, and later explored parts of Central America and South America. However, he never set foot on mainland North America.

The America was already inhabited by Indigenous peoples long before his arrival. Norse explorer Leif Erikson is also believed to have reached parts of North America, in present-day Canada, centuries before Columbus's voyage. Columbus died in 1506 still believing he had reached Asia rather than a continent previously unknown to Europeans.

Why did the US establish Columbus Day?

The first recorded Columbus Day celebration in the United States took place in New York in 1792, marking the 300th anniversary of his arrival in the Caribbean and celebrating Italian American heritage. In 1892, President Benjamin Harrison encouraged Americans to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Columbus's voyage with patriotic celebrations.

Columbus Day became a federal holiday in 1937 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, following years of advocacy by the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal organization. In 1971, the holiday was moved to the second Monday in October.

What's open and closed on Columbus Day?

Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the US, observed on Monday, October 12. Federal offices and many bank branches will close, while most retailers and supermarkets will remain open. However, operating hours vary by state, business and institution.

Federal offices and banks

- Federal offices and courts: Most federal offices and federal courts will be closed. Social Security services may be available online.

- Banks: Many major bank branches, including Bank of America, Wells Fargo and Citibank, will close. ATMs, mobile banking and online services will remain available, but some transfers and settlements may be delayed.

- Bond markets: US bond markets will be closed in observance of the holiday.

Retail stores, supermarkets and delivery services

Most major retailers and grocery stores will remain open on Columbus Day, although individual store hours may vary.

- Retailers: Walmart, Target, Home Depot, Lowe's and Kohl's are generally expected to operate as usual.

- Warehouse clubs: Costco and Sam's Club are generally open on Columbus Day.

- Supermarkets and pharmacies: Major grocery chains, CVS and Walgreens are generally expected to remain open.

- Package delivery: UPS and FedEx services may operate on modified holiday schedules. Check individual carrier updates for delivery and pickup availability.

USPS mail delivery

US Postal Service (USPS) post offices will be closed on Monday, October 12, and regular mail delivery will not take place. Priority Mail Express may have different service arrangements.

Public schools and state offices

School closures depend on local district calendars. Some schools and universities will close, while others will remain open or schedule staff training days.

State offices, city halls and Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) locations may also close depending on whether the state observes Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples' Day.

Is the stock market open on Columbus Day?

Yes. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq are scheduled to remain open for regular trading from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday, October 12. US bond markets, however, will be closed.