Columbus Day 2025: What’s Open and Closed on the Holiday

As the United States prepares to observe Columbus Day on October 13, 2025, many residents are wondering which services will be available and which will be closed. This federal holiday is recognized in some areas as Indigenous Peoples Day, highlighting ongoing discussions about historical narratives and cultural recognition.

Postal Services and Financial Institutions

All United States Postal Service locations will be closed on Columbus Day, meaning no mail will be delivered on this date. While federal offices shut down for the holiday, private shipping companies like UPS and FedEx will remain operational. Customers can expect pickup and delivery services, although some shipments may experience delays due to the holiday.

In the realm of banking, most institutions will close their doors. As Columbus Day is a Federal Reserve holiday, banks such as Bank of America and Wells Fargo will not offer in-person services. Chase Bank branches will be open but will not process online transactions. However, customers can still access online banking and ATM services across all banks, so checking local branch hours is advisable.

Government Offices and Retail Operations

All federal government offices, including courts, will be closed for the day. Essential services that remained operational during the ongoing federal government shutdown will resume normal hours on October 14. State offices, including departments like the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), will also observe the holiday, with many local government offices closed as well. Some municipalities may keep certain offices open or operate at reduced hours, so it is wise to verify local schedules.

While government services take a break, many major retailers will be open for business. National chains such as Target and Walmart will welcome shoppers, along with grocery stores like Safeway, Kroger, Walgreens, and CVS. Warehouse clubs, including Costco and Sam’s Club, will also operate normally on Columbus Day.

Columbus Day, established as a federal holiday on the second Monday of October, honors the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas. However, growing awareness of the explorer’s impact on Indigenous peoples has prompted some states to adopt the alternative designation of Indigenous Peoples Day. In 2021, President Joe Biden became the first U.S. president to formally recognize Indigenous Peoples Day, celebrating the resilience and contributions of Indigenous communities.

As the holiday approaches, individuals are encouraged to plan accordingly, considering both closures and openings. With the varying perspectives on Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day, this year’s observance serves as a reminder of the complex histories that shape American society today.