Massachusetts Closes Offices as Holiday Changes Schedules

Massachusetts closed schools, government offices and courts for the federal holiday observed as Columbus Day on October 12, 2026, while some communities recognized Indigenous Peoples Day and residents faced different schedules for banks, stores and transit services.

According to CBS News, all Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles offices and service centers were closed, while retailers and liquor stores were allowed to operate. Many banks closed, though some branches remained open.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority followed modified holiday operations, with subway service running on a Saturday schedule and buses using a Saturday holiday schedule, while Commuter Rail and ferry services kept regular weekday schedules, according to CBS News.

Several museums in Massachusetts offered free admission for residents on the holiday. The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston and the Worcester Art Museum provided free entry, according to CBS News.

Commercial banks across the United States had different approaches to the holiday, with many closing branches while some maintained operations, according to 10TV. The New York Stock Exchange also remained open because the exchange does not include the holiday on its recognized closure schedule.

Bank holiday calendars used different names for the observance. Some institutions referred to the day as Columbus Day, others used Indigenous Peoples Day, and some listed both names on their schedules, according to 10TV.

President Donald Trump previously used holiday proclamations supporting the Columbus Day name and criticized efforts to replace it with other designations.

"A merciless campaign to erase our history, slander our heroes and attack our heritage" was how President Donald Trump described efforts to change the holiday name, according to 10TV.

Trump also described Columbus in his proclamations while defending the explorer's historical significance.

"A true American hero" was the phrase President Donald Trump used for Columbus, according to 10TV.

Columbus Day has been a federal holiday since 1971. According to 10TV, 17 states and Washington, D.C. have holidays recognizing Native Americans either alongside Columbus Day or instead of it.

The debate over the holiday reflects different views of Columbus' legacy. Supporters highlight Italian American heritage celebrations, while others point to the impact of Columbus' arrival on Indigenous communities.