Columbus Day 2024

Columbus Day vs. Indigenous Peoples Day: What Time Travel Taught Us about Open and Closed!

Wondering what’s open and closed this Columbus Day? Spoiler alert: It’s a mixed bag! 🚪🛒🗓️

Columbus Day, celebrated on the second Monday of October, is one of those federal holidays that stirs up a bit of a debate, much like pineapple on pizza! Officially recognized since 1934, this holiday marks the landing of the Italian explorer Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. However, in recent years, many have pushed to replace it with Indigenous Peoples Day to honor the culture and history of Native Americans, leading to a patchwork of celebrations across the country. So, what should you expect this Columbus Day in 2024?

On October 14, notable closures include the United States Postal Service, which takes this day off, letting postal workers indulge in some sweet relaxation time instead of delivering mail. Most government offices will also be closed, which means any hope of last-minute forms or permits should probably be tossed like an overripe tomato. Schools also tend to close for the holiday, giving students a well-deserved break, while many local businesses and grocery stores stay open, much to the delight of the snack-hungry munchkins who usually would have to fend for themselves in the kitchen.

So, while some folks are celebrating Columbus and others are honoring Indigenous culture, the real winner here might just be the local coffee shops! Many take advantage of the day to offer special deals, so if you're strolling around to see what's open, treat yourself to a latte and put your feet up. Just remember, not every shop can stay open, so it’s always a wise move to check in advance - unless you're comfortable facing the thrilling adventure of an unexpected locked door!

But did you know that before Columbus Day became a federal holiday, various states and communities had their own unique observances to celebrate the diversity of Indigenous cultures across North America? And here's a fun fact: Columbus never set foot on what we now know as the USA! Instead, he landed in the Bahamas, so if you happen to get asked by your friends where they can find the best pizza in Canada, just tell them that the best pie is really all about the adventure – and maybe it comes with a side of history!