Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day 2024: A Comprehensive Overview of Services and Closures

Understanding Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day

Columbus Day, also recognized as Indigenous Peoples' Day in many parts of the U.S., will be observed on Monday, October 14, 2024. It is a federal holiday, leading to various closures and adjustments across different sectors, including government services, businesses, schools, and public utilities.

Federal Workers Will Have the Day Off

Columbus Day, a federal holiday, provides a paid day off for federal employees. According to the Pew Research Center, federal offices will close for the day, allowing workers to enjoy the long weekend. This applies nationwide, as federal offices adhere to the federal holiday calendar.

Mail Services Paused for the Day

The U.S. Postal Service will not be operating on Monday, October 14, in observance of the holiday. According to MarketWatch, no regular mail or packages will be delivered. USPS recognizes Columbus Day as one of its 11 federal holidays each year. However, private services like FedEx and UPS will continue their operations as usual.

Banks Following the Federal Holiday Schedule

Most banks will be closed on Columbus Day, as they align with the federal holiday schedule. Branches of major banks across the country will not operate, though customers can still use ATMs, online banking, and mobile banking services. While banks will remain closed, the stock market will remain open, though bond markets will be closed for the holiday.

Garbage Collection Services Vary By Location

• Trash and recycling pickups vary depending on where you live.
• In Columbus, Ohio, services will pause for Columbus Day.
• Residents should check with their local service providers for specific schedules on Indigenous Peoples' Day.

School Schedules Differ Across States

School closures will vary across states and districts. Some schools will remain open, while others will observe either Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples' Day. Chicago Public Schools (CPS) will not hold classes on Monday, October 14, as they recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day.

Business and Retail Operations

Most retailers, restaurants, and businesses will operate as usual on Columbus Day, though some may have adjusted hours. Popular stores like Starbucks and Target are expected to remain open.

Government Buildings and DMV Services

State government buildings across the U.S. will close for the holiday, including driver services facilities. Libraries may remain open, but services will vary.

A Growing Recognition of Indigenous Peoples' Day

While Columbus Day remains officially recognized, there is a shift towards acknowledging Indigenous Peoples' Day. In recent years, legislative efforts to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day at the state level have gained traction, promoting the contributions and history of Native Americans. In Chicago, although legislation has stalled, Indigenous Peoples' Day is recognized by Chicago Public Schools.

As October 14 approaches, understanding the implications of Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day ensures that residents stay informed of local schedules and closures.