Americans observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Columbus Day every second Monday of October. Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors the contributions and heritage of those who inhabited America long before Christopher Columbus arrived. President Joe Biden formally recognized Indigenous Peoples’ Day in 2021, acknowledging the historical injustices inflicted upon Native people by federal policies.
Some states officially celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, while others mark it with proclamations. Over 100 cities have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day as an official holiday.
If you’re wondering what’s open and closed on this holiday:
Banks:
- Federal Reserve banks are closed, but stock markets, including Nasdaq and the New York Stock Exchange, will be open.
- Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank branches will be closed.
- Chase Bank and TD Bank will remain open for Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
- Online banking and ATM services are available as usual.
Mail:
- The United States Postal Service will be closed and won’t deliver mail or packages.
- UPS and FedEx will mostly operate as usual, with FedEx Express and FedEx Ground Economy offering modified service. UPS will operate normally.
Retail:
- Most major retailers like Target, Walmart, and Kroger will remain open. Check with local businesses for their operating hours.
Government Institutions:
- Government buildings, including the DMV, libraries, courts, and offices, will be closed since it’s a government holiday.
