Many people now ask what is Columbus Day called in their city or state, because the holiday has been renamed in multiple regions across the United States. The shift reflects changing historical awareness and local decisions about how to honor Indigenous communities and other heritage groups.
Below is a quick reference that captures the main naming patterns, legal status, and observance details for Columbus Day and its alternatives across different jurisdictions.
| Jurisdiction Type | Official Holiday Name | Indigenous Recognition | Observance Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal (U.S.) | Columbus Day | No | Exploration and Italian-American heritage |
| State (e.g., California, Texas) | Columbus Day | Partial (some states also recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day alongside) | Mixed, varies by state statute |
| City (e.g., Los Angeles, New York) | Indigenous Peoples' Day | Yes | Indigenous history and contributions |
| City (e.g., Seattle, Denver) | Indigenous Peoples' Day / Discoverer's Day | Yes | Dual observance or local history |
| State (e.g., South Dakota) | Native American Day | Yes | Tribal cultures and sovereignty |
Columbus Day in the Federal Calendar
At the national level, the holiday remains Columbus Day in the United States. Federal offices and many banks follow this schedule, though participation varies by agency and region. The date stays fixed on the second Monday of October each year, aligning with earlier established federal practice.
State Level Variations in Naming
State governments decide whether to retain Columbus Day, replace it, or add a second observance. Some states officially recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day either by statute or executive proclamation, while others keep Columbus Day as a legal holiday with cultural notes. A few states use dual names or designate separate days for Native American recognition.
Local Renaming to Indigenous Peoples' Day and Native American Day
Cities and counties frequently choose Indigenous Peoples' Day to emphasize precolonial histories and contemporary Indigenous communities. Certain regions and school districts pair the new name with educational initiatives, land acknowledgment practices, and cultural events. Other localities adopt Native American Day, focusing on tribal governments, sovereignty, and contributions to society.
Cultural Observance Shifts and Public Programs
Renaming the holiday often coincides with broader public programs such as museum exhibits, teach-ins, and landback advocacy campaigns. Organizers highlight Indigenous leadership, environmental stewardship, and treaty rights, framing the day as a counterpoint to traditional narratives of discovery. Local coalitions may include tribal councils, student groups, and cultural centers that coordinate events throughout the week.
Moving Forward with Recognition and Education
- Research the official holiday name and status in your state, county, and city.
- Support local Indigenous-led events and educational programs during the observance period.
- Encourage schools and workplaces to include accurate history and contemporary Indigenous voices.
- Stay updated on legislative changes that may affect holiday names and observances in your area.
- Use the occasion to explore resources on tribal histories, land stewardship, and cultural preservation.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is Columbus Day still a federal holiday, and does renaming it at the city level change federal observance?
Yes, Columbus Day remains a federal holiday, so federal employees and offices generally observe it even when a city calls it Indigenous Peoples' Day. Local renaming usually affects city and municipal events rather than federal operations.
Why do some places call it Indigenous Peoples' Day instead of Columbus Day?
Many communities adopt Indigenous Peoples' Day to recognize the histories and resilience of Native peoples, acknowledge the impacts of European colonization, and promote a more inclusive historical narrative.
Does renaming the holiday affect federal benefits or mail delivery?
No, renaming by a city or state does not alter federal benefit schedules or U.S. Postal Service operations. Federal employees still receive the day off if it is a federal holiday.
Can a state have both Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day at the same time?
Yes, some states legally recognize both observances, either on the same date or on separate days, allowing institutions to honor multiple cultural perspectives within the same timeframe.