Columbus Day 2025: Commemorating History with Complex Legacy
Columbus Day is observed every year in the United States on the second Monday of October, and in 2025 it falls on October 13. The holiday commemorates the landing of explorer Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492, which initiated the first lasting contact between Europe and the Indigenous peoples of the Western Hemisphere. While traditionally Columbus Day celebrates the bravery and vision of Columbus, it also serves as a celebration of Italian-American heritage, especially in cities with significant Italian-American populations through parades and cultural events.
Historical Origins
The earliest formal celebration of Columbus Day occurred in 1792, marking the 300th anniversary of Columbus’s voyage, organized by the Columbian Order in New York. Columbus Day was officially declared a national holiday in 1937 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt after previous efforts to honor Columbus gained prominence following the lynching of 11 Italian immigrants in 1891. It is a federal holiday marked by various ceremonies and observances across the U.S., with many government offices, schools, and banks closed.
Modern Observance and Celebrations
In 2025, Columbus Day is marked by official proclamations, including the one issued by President Donald J. Trump emphasizing Columbus as a foundational figure of Western civilization and American heritage. The day is observed with parades, especially in cities like New York and San Francisco, school closures, family gatherings, and cultural festivities celebrating Italian-American contributions to society.
Controversy and Alternative Observances
Columbus Day has become highly controversial due to the historical impact of European colonization on Indigenous populations, including exploitation, violence, and displacement. Critics argue that celebrating Columbus masks the genocide and injustices Native Americans endured and continue to face. This has led many states and cities to replace or supplement Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day, which honors Native American heritage and resilience. The dual recognition is increasingly common nationwide, reflecting an evolving national conversation about history and identity.
What’s Open and Closed
As a federal holiday, many government offices, banks, and schools are closed on Columbus Day, but some businesses and services remain open. The day also coincides with Indigenous Peoples' Day, making it a significant day of cultural reflection and sometimes political demonstrations.
This multifaceted holiday illustrates the complexity of commemorating history while acknowledging the struggles of Indigenous peoples. Columbus Day 2025 offers an opportunity for Americans to celebrate heritage, reflect on historical truths, and engage in ongoing discussions about the nation's past and future.