Columbus Day Remains Federal Holiday Across United States

Columbus Day will be observed across the United States on Monday, Oct. 12, 2026, as a federal holiday recognized by the U.S. government. The holiday commemorates Christopher Columbus' arrival in the Americas in 1492 and affects federal services, courts, and mail operations.

According to the U.S. government holiday calendar, Columbus Day is one of 11 federal holidays. The observance takes place annually on the second Monday in October after being moved under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act.

Federal offices, federal courts, and post offices are generally closed for Columbus Day, according to the holiday schedule. The U.S. Postal Service suspends regular mail delivery, while many government services do not operate.

Because Columbus Day is also a Federal Reserve holiday, many banks close, although some branches may offer limited hours, according to holiday guidance. Private businesses, including grocery stores, restaurants, and retailers, often remain open with possible location-based schedule changes.

New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq operations are expected to continue during normal trading hours on Columbus Day 2026. School schedules vary because some districts and colleges observe the holiday while others remain open.

The holiday became a federal observance in 1937, according to historical records cited by lohud.com. It was later assigned to the second Monday in October as part of a law creating several three-day federal holiday weekends.

Many states, cities, and school districts also recognize Indigenous Peoples Day on the same date as Columbus Day. Some jurisdictions observe both holidays, while others have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day to recognize Native American history, culture, and contributions.

Three federal holidays remain after Columbus Day in the 2026 calendar, according to the federal holiday schedule. They are Veterans Day on Nov. 11, Thanksgiving Day on Nov. 26, and Christmas Day on Dec. 25.