Columbus Day 2026 Keeps USPS Closed as Stores Open

Columbus Day on Monday, October 12, 2026, will close the U.S. Postal Service and some government services while most stores and restaurants remain open, according to NJ.com and Fox8. The federal holiday also affects banks, deliveries, and municipal services in several locations.

The USPS will not deliver mail or open post offices on Monday, October 12, according to Fox8. FedEx, UPS, and Amazon fulfillment services will continue operating on regular or modified schedules.

New York City Department of Sanitation said trash, composting, and recycling collections will not occur on Monday because of Italian Heritage Day and Indigenous Peoples Day observances.

Residents with Monday collections may place materials at the curb Monday evening for pickup beginning Tuesday, October 13, according to the New York City Department of Sanitation. The agency warned holiday delays may occur after collections resume.

Most banks will close for the holiday, although NJ.com reported TD Bank and Chase planned to remain open. Some Chase services may not be available until the next business day.

Grocery stores and major retailers are generally scheduled to operate, though hours may differ by location, according to NJ.com. The listed open businesses include Costco, Walmart, Target, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Best Buy, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and other national chains.

Restaurants are expected to provide takeout, delivery, and in-person dining without broad schedule changes, according to NJ.com. Local businesses may set different hours based on location.

The holiday remains a federal observance and is recognized by most states, while Hawaii observes Discoverers’ Day instead, according to NJ.com. The date also continues to be observed by some communities as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

President Trump addressed the holiday’s cultural debate last spring, accusing Democrats of opposing Christopher Columbus and describing his position on the explorer’s legacy.

"back from the ashes" said President Trump.

The remarks were part of President Trump’s statement about restoring recognition of Columbus Day. Fox8 reported that an increasing number of Americans have chosen to observe Indigenous Peoples Day instead.

"everything possible to destroy Christopher Columbus" said President Trump.

The president’s comments referenced criticism of Columbus and historical debates over his actions toward Native communities.

"his reputation" said President Trump.

The next federal holiday after Columbus Day is Veterans Day on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, followed by Thanksgiving Day on November 26 and Christmas Day on December 25, according to NJ.com.