Columbus Day 2026: Columbus Day is one of the oldest federal holidays in the US, celebrated each year in October. The holiday commemorates Columbus’s voyage in 1492 and his arrival in America, but its significance and tradition have changed, becoming part of the large national debate about the heritage of Indigenous people and the consequences of colonisation. Here are all the details you need to know.
Columbus Day 2026: When Is It Celebrated in the US?
Columbus Day 2026 will be observed on Monday, October 12. The holiday is celebrated on the second Monday of October each year under the federal holiday schedule. The US Office of Personnel Management lists October 12 as Columbus Day on the official 2026 federal holiday calendar.
Is Columbus Day a Federal Holiday in the US?
Yes. Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States. Federal employees generally receive the day off, and federal agencies are closed, although the effect on state offices, schools, banks and private businesses can vary by location and employer. The federal government officially continues to designate the holiday as Columbus Day.
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What Is the Theme of Columbus Day in 2026?
Unlike observances such as World Sight Day or Earth Day, Columbus Day does not have a single annual official theme. Instead, the holiday centres on remembering Christopher Columbus and his 1492 voyage. In its 2026 proclamation, the White House highlighted Columbus’s voyage, exploration and historical legacy, while also connecting the observance with Italian-American heritage.
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