Columbus Day Closes Government Offices as Retailers Open

Public services across Long Island are scaling back operations for Columbus Day on Monday, Oct. 12, 2026, as federal, state, and local government offices close while most retailers, New York State Parks, and major delivery companies continue operating. The holiday also coincides with Indigenous Peoples' Day, which features ceremonies and traditional dances on Randall's Island. According to Newsday, post offices and municipal offices are closed for the federal holiday.

Residents may encounter changes to garbage collection and other local services, with schedules varying by town or city. Financial markets are following different schedules. Bond markets are closed, but the stock market remains open, according to Newsday.

Most banks are also closed, although Chase and TD Bank are among the major commercial institutions keeping their branches open. Most Long Island schools are closed, with exceptions depending on the individual district, Newsday reported.

Retail and outdoor recreation remain available across much of Long Island. The vast majority of retailers are open, and many are offering holiday sales, according to Newsday. New York State Parks, historic sites, and trails are also open. The holiday frequently coincides with a busy fall foliage weekend, making the availability of outdoor destinations a notable part of the day's operating schedule, Newsday reported.

Major delivery companies, including Amazon and UPS, are operating normally, according to the publication. Their regular schedules contrast with the closures affecting government offices and many banking services. The holiday observances also include public celebrations of Italian American heritage and recognition of Indigenous history. Manhattan's Fifth Avenue hosts a major Columbus Day parade, while Randall's Island holds Indigenous Peoples' Day ceremonies and traditional dances on Monday.

Columbus Day is observed on the second Monday in October as a federal holiday. Indigenous Peoples' Day recognizes the continent's first inhabitants and is observed on the same day in New York, according to Newsday.