Is Today Columbus Day 2026? What to Know About the Federal Holiday, Closures, and Sales

Is today Columbus Day? Yes—Monday, October 12, 2026 is the official observance of Columbus Day in the United States, falling on the second Monday of October as established by federal law. Here’s what you need to know about the holiday’s status, why some states observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead, and how today’s closures may affect you. What Columbus Day Means in 2026 Columbus Day commemorates Christopher Columbus’s 1492 arrival in the Americas, a date that long symbolized European exploration. In recent years, the holiday has faced growing scrutiny over its impact on Indigenous communities and has been re-examined nationwide. More than 20 states and hundreds of municipalities now forgo the traditional name, marking the second Monday of October as Indigenous Peoples’ Day to honor Native cultures and resilience. Is Columbus Day a Federal Holiday? • Yes. Columbus Day is one of 11 federal holidays, meaning non-essential federal government offices are closed and most federal employees receive a paid day off. • The U.S. Postal Service does not deliver regular mail today. • Federal courts are closed, and deadlines that fall on the holiday automatically shift to the next business day. Banks, Stock Market and Business Hours • Banks: Most major banks are closed because they follow the Federal Reserve holiday calendar. However, online banking, ATMs and mobile apps remain available. • Stock Market: The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq are open for normal trading hours; U.S. bond markets close early at 2 p.m. ET. • Retailers: National chains such as Walmart, Target and Home Depot operate on regular Monday schedules, although locally owned shops may reduce hours. • Package Delivery: UPS and FedEx provide normal pickup and delivery, but USPS Priority Mail Express is the only U.S. Postal Service product moving today. Schools and Government Offices Public-school schedules vary. Districts in states that recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day—such as Maine, New Mexico and Virginia—are more likely to close, while many schools in states that still observe Columbus Day remain open. Check local district calendars for exact details. State and local government offices typically follow their own holiday lists, so DMV branches or tax offices may be closed even if nearby schools are in session. Public Transportation Most city transit systems—including New York City’s MTA, Chicago’s CTA and Los Angeles Metro—run on weekday schedules. Commuter rail lines may run slightly reduced service; consult your local transit authority before traveling. Events, Parades and Commemorations • New York City’s annual Columbus Day Parade marches up Fifth Avenue beginning at 11 a.m. ET, featuring over 100 bands, floats and cultural groups. • Cities such as Seattle, Denver and Phoenix host Indigenous Peoples’ Day rallies, educational workshops and cultural performances in lieu of Columbus-focused festivities. • Museums including the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C., offer free programming that highlights Native histories and contemporary issues. Why Some States Observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day Critics of Columbus Day point to the violent consequences of European colonization for Native populations. Advocates for change argue that celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day promotes a more accurate historical narrative and elevates cultures that pre-date 1492. States such as Alaska, Minnesota and Vermont made the switch as early as 2016, and momentum continues to grow nationwide. How to Celebrate Responsibly Whether you observe Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day or both, today offers an opportunity to learn about the complex legacy of exploration and colonization in the Americas. Consider: • Visiting a local museum exhibit on Native history. • Reading primary-source accounts from Indigenous perspectives. • Supporting Native-owned businesses and artists. • Attending community events that foster dialogue about shared histories. The Bottom Line October 12, 2026 is a federal holiday, so many banks and government offices are closed, while retail and stock markets remain largely open. As debates over the day’s meaning evolve, Americans continue to reinterpret this date—some honoring Columbus’s voyage, others celebrating Indigenous heritage, and many acknowledging both narratives. Whatever today signifies for you, plan around the closures and take a moment to reflect on the broader story behind the holiday.