The second Monday in October is Aboriginal Day and Columbus Day in the United States.
The two holidays are related. Aboriginal Day honors and celebrates the history and contributions of Native Americans, who lived on the continent long before Christopher Columbus claimed to have discovered America.
The Biden administration has officially recognized Indigenous Peoples Day starting in 2021, but it is not yet a federal holiday. Even so, according to History.com, “more than a dozen states” recognize some version of Indigenous Peoples Day or an alternative to Columbus Day.
Columbus Day is still celebrated in many states. Columbus Day is one of 11 federal holidays, according to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.
Are federal and local government offices open on Columbus Day?
All federal offices will be closed for the holiday, but Wisconsin state offices will remain open.
Milwaukee city offices are open, according to its website.
Will the post office be open on Columbus Day?
The U.S. Postal Service will be closed on Columbus Day. No mail will be delivered.
FedEx Ground Economy and FedEx Express will operate on modified hours, while all other services will be open. UPS delivery and pickup services will be available on Monday, October 9, but UPS SurePost and UPS Mail Innovations deliveries will require additional business days.
Will banks be open on Columbus Day?
Most banks will be closed on Monday to celebrate the holiday.
Bank of America, Wells Fargo and Citibank branches will be closed for the holiday, but Chase and TD Bank will be open, according to .
You can still use online banking or ATM services during the holidays.
Will the stock market be open on Columbus Day?
Stock markets will open on Monday, but bond markets will be closed.
Are Milwaukee Public Schools open today?
Yes, Milwaukee Public Schools are open today, according to the district calendar.
Is the Milwaukee Public Library open today?
The city’s libraries will remain open today despite the holiday, according to the Milwaukee Public Library’s holiday closure list.
Will stores and businesses be open on Columbus Day?
Most stores and businesses remain open during the holiday, including large chain retailers like Target and Walmart. Be sure to check with local businesses to see if they are open today.
Peoria Journal Star reporter Chris Sims contributed to this report.
