Columbus Day, observed on the second Monday of October, falls on October 13, 2025. It’s a federal holiday in the United States, but the answer to do people work on Columbus Day depends on where you live and the industry you work in. While federal employees typically enjoy a day off, many private sector workers continue their regular schedules. In 2025, this mix remains unchanged, reflecting both tradition and evolving workplace policies.
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Federal Offices and Government Workers
Columbus Day is one of the 11 federal holidays recognized in the U.S. This means:
- Federal offices such as the U.S. Postal Service, IRS, and Social Security Administration will be closed on Monday, October 13, 2025.
- Post offices will not deliver regular mail, though Priority Mail Express services may continue.
- Federal courts and agencies will also shut down for the day.
Federal workers receive the day off with pay, a practice that has remained consistent since the holiday was declared in 1937.
State and Local Government Offices
Columbus Day observance varies by state:
- States that observe Columbus Day as a public holiday typically close state offices, DMVs, and courts.
- States that observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day (such as California, Minnesota, and Maine) may close state offices under this alternative designation.
- In Hawaii, Alaska, and South Dakota, Columbus Day is not recognized as a public holiday, so most state offices remain open.
Local government closures depend on city policies. Cities like Los Angeles and Seattle hold Indigenous Peoples’ Day events, but essential municipal services such as emergency response and trash collection continue uninterrupted.
Banks and the Financial Sector
The Federal Reserve observes Columbus Day, so:
- All Federal Reserve Banks and branches will close.
- Major commercial banks like Wells Fargo, Chase, and Bank of America typically follow suit.
- ATMs and mobile banking services remain available, but transactions scheduled for October 13 will process the next business day.
The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ remain open, so financial markets operate as usual despite bank closures.
Schools and Universities
Whether schools close depends on their location and calendar:
- Public schools in states that observe Columbus Day often close.
- Some districts have replaced the holiday with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, choosing to remain open while hosting cultural programs and educational activities.
- Certain districts treat the day as a teacher in-service day, meaning no classes for students.
- Colleges and universities typically hold regular classes unless state law designates the day as a holiday.
For example, New York City public schools will close, while most California schools remain open but may hold commemorative events.
Private Sector Workplaces
For most Americans, Columbus Day is not a paid day off. Unlike Thanksgiving or Christmas, private employers are not required to close.
- Retail and hospitality businesses usually remain open, often offering holiday promotions.
- Many corporate offices stay open or offer a floating holiday that employees can use at their discretion.
- Manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries operate normally because of continuous production or essential services.
A recent labor report shows that fewer than 15% of private sector employees receive paid leave for Columbus Day, and this percentage remains steady in 2025.
Retail Stores and Public Services
Many retailers treat Columbus Day as a shopping holiday, similar to Labor Day or Presidents Day.
Here’s a quick overview of what’s open or closed on Columbus Day 2025:
| Sector | Status on October 13, 2025 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Offices | Closed | Includes post offices |
| State Offices | Mixed | Depends on state observance |
| Banks | Closed | Online and ATM services available |
| Stock Market | Open | Normal trading hours |
| Schools | Mixed | Varies by state and district |
| Retail Stores | Open | Holiday sales and promotions |
| Restaurants | Open | Regular or holiday hours |
| Public Transit | Limited | Holiday or Sunday schedules in some cities |
Columbus Day vs. Indigenous Peoples’ Day
The rise of Indigenous Peoples’ Day has changed how workplaces and schools approach the holiday:
- 29 states and Washington, D.C. now recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day either alongside or instead of Columbus Day.
- This affects public sector closures and influences private employers’ holiday calendars.
- National companies often standardize their schedules by either staying open or offering flexible time off, avoiding confusion between jurisdictions.
This shift reflects changing perspectives on U.S. history while creating practical differences in work schedules across states.
Transportation and City Services
Public transportation systems typically operate on reduced or holiday schedules:
- New York City’s MTA and Chicago’s CTA will follow modified timetables.
- Amtrak operates normally, though ticket offices may have reduced staffing.
- Trash collection may run on a delayed schedule in certain cities, shifting pickups by one day.
Emergency services remain fully operational, regardless of the holiday.
Final Thoughts
So, do people work on Columbus Day? In 2025, the answer depends on your job and location. Federal and many state employees have the day off, banks close, and schools vary. Most private sector workers, however, stick to their usual schedules. As more states adopt Indigenous Peoples’ Day, holiday observances continue to evolve across the country.
Whether you’re off for the holiday or working through it, Columbus Day reflects the changing landscape of American traditions. How does your workplace handle the day? Share your thoughts below!