Columbus Day 2024: What Businesses Are Closed Today?
Americans are confused why only some businesses are closed on October 14, 2024, which is a federal holiday.
Although many businesses are recognizing Monday, October 14, as a nationwide holiday, not everyone is observing Columbus Day (which is now known as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in multiple states). Certain banks and other businesses are closed for the day, but which ones are open? Find out which major chains and federal businesses are open for the federal holiday, below.
Is October 14, 2024, a Federal Holiday?
October 14, 2024, is a federal holiday. It was originally recognized as Columbus Day by all U.S. states until it was eventually widely observed as Indigenous Peoples’ Day. However, Indigenous Peoples’ Day is still not considered an American federal holiday — only Columbus Day is labeled as such.
What Businesses Are Open & Closed on Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
Only some businesses recognized October 14, 2024, as a federal holiday. Businesses such as the U.S. Postal Service shut down for the day, so all incoming and outgoing mail is paused until Tuesday, October 15. A handful of banks also shut down today, including Wells Fargo and Bank of America.
However, a majority of businesses remain open for the day. The stock market, for example, did not close, as the New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ do not observe Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a holiday.
Many stores including Target, Costco and Walmart remain open, but some of their locations’ hours may vary.
As for small businesses, their hours also differ. Some local grocery stores, shops and other businesses have limited hours to observe the holiday.
The Difference Between Columbus Day & Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Columbus Day — which takes place on the second Monday of October — was created to recognize Italian explorer Christopher Columbus, who discovered the Americas in 1492. Centuries later, multiple countries around the world celebrated him. Some referred to it as a day of discovery, and others simply called it Columbus Day. However, over time, the holiday’s title stirred controversy because of Columbus’ cruel treatment and enslavement of Indigenous People.
By the late 20th century, several U.S. states adopted the holiday as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
President Joe Biden became the first U.S. president to commemorate the day on October 11, 2021, with an official proclamation.
“I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities,” Biden’s statement read at the time. “I also direct that the flag of the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed day in honor of our diverse history and the Indigenous peoples who contribute to shaping this Nation.”
Biden also pointed out the contributions that Indigenous people “have made throughout history — in public service, entrepreneurship, scholarship, the arts, and countless other fields — are integral to our nation, our culture, and our society.”