What's open and what's closed this Monday for Columbus Day?
Banks, federal offices and the postal service are closed for Columbus Day, while stock exchanges, supermarkets and most businesses will operate on their usual schedules.
Donald Trump after delivering a speech at the Columbus Day celebration
On Monday, Oct. 12, the nation celebrates Columbus Day, one of the country's 11 federal holidays, a day that affects the operations of banks, government offices and postal services, although most businesses remain open.
The holiday, observed on the second Monday in October, commemorates Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas in 1492. In several states and cities, it is also recognized as Indigenous Peoples' Day.
According to the official calendars of federal institutions, these are the main services affected on this day.
Which services will be closed?
- Banks: The Federal Reserve suspends its regular operations and most bank branches remain closed, including locations of Bank of America, Wells Fargo and Citibank. Some institutions may open select branches.
- Government offices: Federal administrative offices remain closed, including the Social Security Administration's usual in-person services.
- U.S. Postal Service (USPS): Post offices will be closed and regular mail delivery will be suspended. Service will resume on Tuesday, Oct. 13.
- Bond Market: the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA) recommends a complete shutdown of dollar-denominated fixed-income trading.
Which businesses and services will be open?
- Wall Street: The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Nasdaq are operating normally, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern Time.
- Supermarkets and major retail chains: Walmart, Target, Costco and most grocery stores are operating as usual, although hours may vary by location.
- Pharmacies and restaurants: Establishments such as CVS, Walgreens and major fast-food chains generally remain open.
- Courier companies: UPS is maintaining its pickup and delivery services, although some shipments handled by the USPS may experience delays. FedEx is also operating, with possible changes depending on the service.
- Online banking and ATMs: These remain available, although some transfers and payments may be processed the next business day.
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What about schools?
The same applies to state offices, local courts, and Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices, whose closures vary by jurisdiction.
Most federal, banking, and postal services will resume normal operations on Tuesday, Oct. 13. In the meantime, authorities recommend checking the specific hours of each establishment before heading out.
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