Columbus Day
Columbus Day is commemorating the day that Christopher Columbus came to America. One of ten federal holidays recognized nationwide by the United States government, the holiday is celebrated every second Monday of October, and has been a federal holiday since 1937.
When is Columbus Day?
The holiday is celebrated every second Monday of October, and has been a federal holiday since 1937.
Dates for the next few years:
October 14, 2019
October 12, 2020
October 11, 2021
October 10, 2022
October 9, 2023
October 14, 2024
How to Celebrate the holiday?
- Local groups host parades and street fairs featuring colorful costumes, music and Italian food.
- It is a federal holiday in the U.S. so schools and banks are closed. It falls on a Monday – the perfect three day weekend.
Columbus Day Trivia/Facts:
- Christopher Columbus landed in the Bahamas on October 12th, 1494.
- Christopher Columbus was an Italian sailor, born in Genoa, Italy in 1451.
- Columbus sailed with three ships, the Nina, the Pinta and the Santa Maria, and 90 crew members on his trip over to the U.S.
- Columbus Day and the man who inspired it have generated controversy, and many alternatives to the holiday have proposed since the 1970s.
- The 1st time the holiday was celebrated was in 1792.
- It was believed millions of people lived in the U.S. before Columbus arrived.
- Columbus arrived in the Bahamas by accident.
- Leif Erikson was said to have landed in the U.S. before Columbus.
- In some parts of the United States, Columbus Day has evolved into a celebration of Italian-American heritage.
Celebrities who celebrate their birthday on October 14th:
- Usher – musician
- Dwight D. Eisenhower – former President
- Roger Moore – Actor (famous for playing 007)
- Ralph Lauren – Fashion Designer
Columbus Day is just one of the holidays celebrated in October. Halloween, Taco Day, Coming Out Day, Arthritis Day and many more!!