Columbus Day 2024: Full Calendar of US Federal Holiday Dates
The upcoming Columbus Day in the US, also recognized as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, is set to take place on Monday, October 14. This annual observance commemorates the landing of Christopher Columbus in the “New World” on the second Monday of October each year. Christopher Columbus, an Italian explorer who sailed under the flag and funding of Spain, led the first expedition to the Americas, marking the initial contact of Europeans with the region on October 12, 1492. It was only in 1937 that Columbus Day was officially declared a US national holiday.
In recent years, Indigenous activists have highlighted concerns regarding the American narrative surrounding the conquests of European descendants, arguing that it has perpetuated the marginalization of Indigenous peoples. Historical records indicate that upon his arrival, Columbus and his crew enslaved, exploited, and engaged in violent acts against the Native inhabitants of the West Indies. Columbus’ own journal entry documented the enslavement of six Native individuals upon the expedition’s arrival.
As a response to these historical truths, several states and cities in the US have opted to rename Columbus Day as Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This shift aims to celebrate and honor the Indigenous communities in the United States, including Native Hawaiians, American Indians, and Native Alaskans, while acknowledging the injustices they have faced throughout history. In a presidential proclamation in 2021, President Joe Biden officially recognized Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a time to honour the nation’s original inhabitants and the Tribal Nations that endure today.
While federal law designates specific holidays, this does not necessarily mandate that employees in private businesses are entitled to take these days off. Aside from Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day, other federal holidays in the US for 2024 include New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth National Independence Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Additionally, notable non-federal holidays such as Valentine’s Day, St Patrick’s Day, Good Friday, Easter, and Passover are dates to keep in mind.
The US federal holiday calendar serves as a reminder of significant historical events and cultural celebrations, encouraging reflection and recognition of diverse communities. These designated holidays offer opportunities for Americans to commemorate and appreciate the country’s rich tapestry of traditions and heritage across different periods of history.