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Columbus Day, observed on 14th October 2024, is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas on October 12, 1492. This holiday, which celebrates the exploration and discovery that shaped the Western world, has been a tradition in the U.S. since President Franklin D. Roosevelt made it a national holiday in 1937.
Over time, however, Columbus Day has sparked debates about the legacy of Columbus and the impact of his voyages on indigenous populations. As a result, some states and cities have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, honoring the history and contributions of Native American cultures. The significance of this holiday remains central to American history, but it is also a reflection point for many communities across the country.
Columbus Day 2024: When and How is it Observed?
Columbus Day 2024 is observed on Monday, 14th October, marking a federal holiday across the U.S. Many institutions, such as federal offices, the post office, and banks, close for the day. However, state policies differ, with some choosing to honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead.
In some states, like New York, Illinois, and California, Columbus Day is still widely celebrated, while states such as South Dakota and New Mexico have chosen to shift their focus to Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Schools may or may not close depending on local regulations, but it remains a significant day for many.
Columbus Day 2024 Parades and Events Across the U.S.
Columbus Day is best known for its vibrant parades and events that celebrate the cultural heritage of Italian-Americans, as well as Columbus’s explorations. The most prominent parades in the U.S. take place in cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco.
- New York City: The Columbus Day Parade in New York City is one of the largest, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators. Floats, bands, and Italian-American cultural organizations march down Fifth Avenue in a grand spectacle.
- Chicago: Known for its Italian heritage, Chicago’s Columbus Day Parade is another major event with colorful displays of culture, music, and history.
- San Francisco: Home to a vibrant Italian-American community, the city celebrates with a Columbus Day Parade that focuses on heritage and family activities.
Columbus Day Sales 2024: Deals and Discounts You Don’t Want to Miss
One of the hallmarks of Columbus Day in modern times is the extensive sales and discounts offered by retailers across the country. Columbus Day has become synonymous with shopping deals, especially for big-ticket items like furniture, appliances, and electronics.
Many retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart, offer massive Columbus Day sales with deep discounts leading up to and on the holiday. Shoppers can find markdowns on everything from mattresses and couches to laptops and smartphones.
For those looking for tech deals, Columbus Day sales can rival those of Black Friday, with stores offering discounts on smart home devices, TVs, gaming consoles, and more. Furniture retailers also slash prices, making Columbus Day a prime time for home renovations and redecorating projects.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2024: An Alternative to Columbus Day
While Columbus Day is a federal holiday, many states and cities have transitioned to celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead. Indigenous Peoples’ Day seeks to acknowledge the contributions, histories, and cultures of Native American peoples, which were often overshadowed or marginalized during Columbus’s era.
Cities like Seattle, Los Angeles, and Denver now host events and educational programs to raise awareness of Native American history. This shift reflects a broader national movement toward re-examining the narratives of colonialism and emphasizing the resilience of indigenous communities.
Columbus Day 2024 — Tradition Meets Change
As Columbus Day 2024 approaches, the holiday continues to evolve. While many celebrate the tradition of exploration and discovery, others take the opportunity to reflect on the impact of colonialism and honor the cultures of indigenous peoples. Whether you’re attending a parade, taking advantage of sales, or learning about Native American heritage, Columbus Day offers a moment to appreciate the complex history that shapes our present.
This year’s celebration will undoubtedly bring people together in new and traditional ways, offering a day filled with reflection, celebration, and connection.
FAQs About Columbus Day 2024
1. What is Columbus Day and why is it celebrated?
Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States, celebrated to honor Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas on October 12, 1492. It commemorates his exploration and the start of European settlement in the Western Hemisphere.
2. When is Columbus Day in 2024?
Columbus Day 2024 falls on Monday, 14th October.
3. Is Columbus Day a federal holiday in 2024?
Yes, Columbus Day is a federal holiday, which means most federal offices, the U.S. Post Office, and banks are closed on this day.
4. Which states celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Columbus Day?
Several states and cities in the U.S., such as California, South Dakota, and New Mexico, have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day to honor Native American cultures and histories.
5. Are schools closed on Columbus Day 2024?
Whether schools close on Columbus Day depends on the state and school district. In some states, schools remain open, while others give students the day off.
6. What are the biggest Columbus Day parades in 2024?
Some of the largest Columbus Day parades take place in New York City, Chicago, and San Francisco. These parades feature floats, music, and vibrant celebrations of Italian-American culture.
7. Where can I find Columbus Day sales and discounts in 2024?
Many retailers offer significant Columbus Day sales. You can expect deals on furniture, appliances, and electronics from stores like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart.
8. Why do some states no longer celebrate Columbus Day?
Some states and cities have shifted to celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day to acknowledge the historical impact of colonization on Native American communities and to honor their contributions and heritage.
9. Is Columbus Day a paid holiday for employees in 2024?
Columbus Day is a paid holiday for federal employees. However, private employers may have different policies, and some may choose to remain open without offering a paid day off.
10. How is Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrated in 2024?
Indigenous Peoples’ Day is celebrated with cultural events, educational programs, and activities that highlight Native American history, contributions, and resilience. Many cities host ceremonies, performances, and community gatherings.