What Is Columbus Day?
Columbus Day is a federal holiday celebrated every year on the second Monday in October — this year falling on October 13, 2025. The day was originally established to honor Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas, but in recent years, many states and cities have shifted focus to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead.
This change aims to honor the history, culture, and contributions of Native American and Indigenous communities while recognizing the broader, more inclusive story of America’s origins.
So, the big question parents ask every year — are schools open on Columbus Day?
The Short Answer: It Depends on Your State or District
While Columbus Day is a federal holiday, it does not automatically close schools nationwide. Federal offices, banks, and post offices are typically closed — but public and private schools follow their own schedules based on local district policies.
In other words, some schools give students a day off, while others remain open and use the day as an opportunity for cultural or historical education.
States Where Schools Are Usually Closed
Several states still observe Columbus Day as a school holiday. These include:
- New York — Public schools remain closed.
- Connecticut — Schools closed statewide.
- Massachusetts — Traditionally closed in observance of the holiday.
- Illinois — Closed in many districts, often observing Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead.
- Washington D.C. — Schools closed for the federal observance.
In these states, the day is treated as an official break for both students and teachers.
States Where Schools Stay Open
In other areas, schools remain open and instead focus on education and awareness about Indigenous history and heritage.
States that typically keep schools open include:
- California — Schools open; holiday recognized as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
- Texas — Most schools open, depending on district decisions.
- Florida — Schools usually open.
- Oregon, Washington, Nevada — Open, but many districts host classroom discussions or cultural events.
Even when schools stay open, lessons often reflect on Indigenous traditions, culture, and contributions.
Why the Difference Exists
The key reason for this variation is that Columbus Day, while federal, isn’t a national school holiday.
Each state department of education and local district sets its own academic calendar. Some states choose to close schools for the day, while others recognize it symbolically through Indigenous Peoples’ Day lessons and community programs.
This flexibility allows districts to either continue instruction or dedicate time to cultural education rather than taking a full day off.
How to Check If Your School Is Open
The best way to confirm your district’s status is to check directly.
Here’s what you’re going to wanna do:
- Visit your school district’s website and open the official 2025–2026 academic calendar.
- Look for October 13, 2025 to see if it’s listed as a holiday or in-service day.
- If it’s not clear, call or email your school office for confirmation.
- Many schools also post schedule changes on their Facebook or X (Twitter) pages ahead of the holiday.
Some districts might even schedule teacher planning or training days near Columbus Day, so double-check to avoid confusion.
Other Closures on Columbus Day 2025
To help plan your week, here’s what else usually closes on Columbus Day:
- Post Offices & USPS: Closed nationwide.
- Banks: Most major banks closed.
- Stock Market: Open for normal trading.
- Libraries: Hours may vary by city.
- Public Transit: May operate on a limited or holiday schedule.
So while schools might stay open in some states, parents should expect limited services elsewhere.
Bottom Line
Columbus Day 2025 will be observed on Monday, October 13. Whether schools are open depends on your state and district — some will close, while others will use the day to teach about Indigenous cultures and American history.
No matter how it’s recognized, the day offers an opportunity for students and families to reflect on the complex history of exploration, discovery, and the vibrant heritage of the Indigenous peoples who were here first.
