Columbus Day is observed on the second Monday of October every year. Initially celebrated on October 12, the date was later changed to create a long weekend.
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The holiday celebrates exploration and Italian-American heritage, though it is also a day of reflection on the impact of colonization.
On Columbus Day, parades, cultural events and educational programs are held, particularly in Italian-American communities.
Columbus Day is a public holiday in many states, with schools and government offices closed. Some cities hold parades, particularly in Italian-American communities such as New York and Chicago, where festive processions showcase Italian heritage with music, floats and cultural performances.
However, celebrations vary across the country. Some states, such as South Dakota and Hawaii, do not recognize Columbus Day and instead observe Indigenous Peoples' Day, which honors Native American history and culture. Many schools and organizations use this day to educate people about Indigenous history and the complex legacy of Columbus' voyages.
Columbus Day became a federal holiday in 1937, but in recent years, some states have replaced it with Indigenous Peoples' Day to honor Native American history. Christopher Columbus, an Italian explorer sailing under the Spanish flag, landed in the Americas on October 12, 1492. His voyage was historically significant as it opened the door for European exploration and colonization. However, Columbus' arrival also marked the beginning of centuries of Indigenous displacement and suffering.
Columbus Day became an official U.S. holiday in 1937, largely due to lobbying by Italian-American communities who saw Columbus as a symbol of their heritage and contributions to American society. However, in recent years, many states and cities have shifted focus to Indigenous Peoples' Day to acknowledge the impact of colonization on Native Americans.
Hanging stockings, leaving cookies for Santa and singing carols are beloved customs.
The holiday sparks conversations about history, exploration and the experiences of indigenous communities.
While Columbus Day was once widely embraced, its relevance is now debated. Supporters see it as a celebration of exploration and Italian-American pride while critics highlight the suffering of Indigenous peoples. As a result, the way the holiday is observed continues to evolve in the United States.