Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2025: A Modern Look at an Evolving American Holiday
Today, October 13, 2025, the United States observes Columbus Day, which many states and cities also celebrate as Indigenous Peoples’ Day. While these two names represent very different perspectives on American history, both share the same calendar date — the second Monday in October. Across the nation, people are wondering: Is today a federal holiday? Are banks open? Does mail run? Is the stock market trading? Let’s break down everything you need to know about this day — what’s open, what’s closed, and why this holiday continues to evolve in modern America.
The History Behind the Day
Columbus Day has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1937, originally established to commemorate Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492. For decades, the day was meant to honor Columbus as the “discoverer” of the New World. However, over time, historians and activists began pointing out the devastating impact of colonization on Indigenous peoples — including violence, slavery, and cultural destruction.
As awareness grew, many Americans began rethinking how the nation should commemorate this day. Thus emerged Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which honors Native American communities, their resilience, and their contributions to the United States. Instead of celebrating conquest, this day focuses on recognition and respect.
While Columbus Day remains a federal holiday, Indigenous Peoples’ Day is recognized officially in many states and local governments, including California, Maine, Minnesota, Vermont, and Washington, D.C. Even President Biden has issued proclamations in recent years acknowledging Indigenous Peoples’ Day alongside Columbus Day, marking a symbolic shift toward inclusivity and historical awareness.
Is Indigenous Peoples’ Day a Federal Holiday?
The short answer is no, it’s not a federal holiday — at least not yet. Only Columbus Day holds that status at the national level. This means that federal offices, courts, and government agencies are closed today in observance of Columbus Day.
However, the growing recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ Day shows a changing national sentiment. In several states, Columbus Day has been replaced entirely by Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Others, like New York or Texas, continue to observe Columbus Day while also hosting cultural events honoring Native American heritage.
Are Banks Open or Closed on October 13, 2025?
If you’re planning to visit your bank today, you may find the doors locked. Most major U.S. banks are closed today, including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, Capital One, and PNC Bank, as they follow the federal holiday schedule.
There are some exceptions: Chase Bank and TD Bank traditionally keep a few branches open, especially those located inside grocery stores or shopping centers. However, it’s best to check your local branch before heading out. Online banking, ATMs, and mobile banking services remain fully functional, so customers can still make transactions digitally.
Is the Post Office Open Today?
No. The United States Postal Service (USPS) is closed nationwide today, meaning there will be no regular mail delivery or pickup. Post offices themselves are also closed. However, Priority Mail Express — the USPS’s overnight delivery service — still operates with limited service.
Private carriers like UPS and FedEx are open today, though with some modified delivery schedules. If you’re expecting a package, check the tracking information for specific updates.
Is the Stock Market Open on Columbus Day 2025?
Yes — the stock market is open. Both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ are open for normal trading hours today, even though it’s a federal holiday.
However, the bond market (including the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association) is closed in observance of Columbus Day. That means while equities and commodities are trading as usual, bond traders get the day off.
This can sometimes lead to lighter trading volumes in stocks as some financial institutions operate with limited staff.
Are Schools Closed Today?
That depends on where you live. In many states, public schools are closed in observance of Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples’ Day. For example, districts in Massachusetts, Illinois, and Washington, D.C. have the day off.
However, some states such as Florida, Texas, and Georgia treat it as a regular school day. Private schools and universities also make independent decisions, so it’s always best to check your local school district’s calendar.
What About Federal and State Offices?
Since Columbus Day is a federal holiday, federal government offices, courthouses, and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) are closed today. State offices usually follow suit, though certain essential services like hospitals, police, and fire departments continue to operate as usual.
Many public libraries, city halls, and county offices are also closed, depending on local government policy.
Retail Stores, Restaurants, and Deliveries
Despite the federal nature of the holiday, most retail stores and restaurants are open today. Large chains like Walmart, Target, Costco, and Starbucks operate on normal schedules. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and gas stations also remain open.
Delivery services such as DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart continue operating as usual, so your lunch or grocery delivery won’t be delayed.
Why the Day Still Sparks Debate
The dual observance of Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day reflects a national conversation about identity, history, and justice. For many Italian-Americans, Columbus Day is a symbol of heritage and pride — recognizing the contributions of Italian immigrants to the United States.
For Native Americans and their allies, however, the celebration of Columbus symbolizes the beginning of centuries of displacement and suffering. Indigenous Peoples’ Day, on the other hand, seeks to reclaim the narrative — celebrating survival, culture, and sovereignty.
The ongoing shift from Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples’ Day in many regions shows how the U.S. continues to reckon with its complex past.
Federal Holidays in 2025
For planning ahead, here’s a quick look at the remaining U.S. federal holidays in 2025:
Veterans Day — Tuesday, November 11
Thanksgiving Day — Thursday, November 27
Christmas Day — Thursday, December 25
Each of these days will also see federal offices and most banks closed.
October 13, 2025, stands at the crossroads of history and progress. While Columbus Day remains a federal holiday, the growing embrace of Indigenous Peoples’ Day marks an important cultural shift toward recognition, inclusivity, and truth-telling.
Today, most federal offices and banks are closed, the post office isn’t delivering mail, but the stock market remains open and business moves forward. For millions of Americans, it’s a day to pause — to reflect on where the nation came from, who built it, and how history continues to shape its future.