Which Holiday Is It?
Today, October 13, 2025, is observed in the United States as Columbus Day, a federal holiday. about.usps.com+3U.S. Office of Personnel Management+3Bangla news+3
Columbus Day was instituted to commemorate Christopher Columbus’s landing in the Americas in 1492. Wikipedia+2about.usps.com+2
However, this day is also increasingly recognized in many states and cities as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which seeks to honor and uplift the histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous Americans rather than celebrate European colonization. Wikipedia+2Bangla news+2
Hence, present-day observance can vary by region and political climate — in some places the emphasis is on the Columbus Day legacy, in others on Indigenous recognition, and in still others both are acknowledged.
What’s Closed, What’s Open, and What You Need to Know
Government, Postal, and Institutional Closures
- Because Columbus Day is a federal holiday, most federal offices and courts are closed. Time and Date+3U.S. Office of Personnel Management+3about.usps.com+3
- The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) will suspend mail delivery and close its branches today. The Sun+2about.usps.com+2
- Many state and local government offices and public schools observe the holiday, so some municipal services will also be unavailable. Bangla news+2Holidays and Observances+2
Banking, Finance & Transactions
- Several major banks, including Wells Fargo and Bank of America, will fully close their physical branches for the day. The Economic Times+2The Sun+2
- However, TD Bank has pledged to keep its branches open despite the holiday, breaking from the usual closure pattern. The Sun
- Some banks like U.S. Bank are closing all ~2,000+ branches nationwide in observance. The Sun
- Even when bank branches are closed, ATMs, digital banking platforms, and card services generally remain accessible. The Economic Times+2The Sun+2
- That said, the Federal Reserve also closes on federal holidays, which means Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers, certain wire transactions, and interbank settlements may be delayed or paused for the day. The Sun+2Barron’s+2
Financial Markets & Trading
- The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq will remain open today. Barron’s
- However, U.S. bond markets and many over-the-counter (OTC) trading desks will be closed. Barron’s
- Some commodity exchanges (e.g. ICE) may operate with limited trading. Barron’s
Events, Observances & Public Life
- In New York City, the annual Columbus Day Parade (81st edition) has been cancelled due to severe weather conditions caused by a nor’easter, which led to a state of emergency in the region. New York Post
- In states and cities that favor Indigenous Peoples’ Day, there are events, gatherings, or educational programs. Observance varies widely by locality. Wikipedia+2Bangla news+2
- Meanwhile, beyond the federal holiday, Oct 13 also carries less formal observances in the U.S., such as National Train Your Brain Day, National M&M Day, and National No Bra Day among others. Days Of The Year+1
The Backdrop: Politics, Controversy & Change
Rising Debate: Columbus Day vs. Indigenous Peoples’ Day
The tension over this holiday is intensifying politically and culturally:
- Critics argue that celebrating Columbus overlooks the violence, colonization, and displacement of Indigenous communities following European arrival.
- Advocates for Indigenous Peoples’ Day push for reframing the day to highlight strength, survival, and recognition of First Nations. Wikipedia+1
- In recent years, some jurisdictions have replaced Columbus Day entirely with Indigenous Peoples’ Day; others now commemorate both. Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2
Presidential & Legislative Moves
- In October 2025, former President Donald Trump issued a proclamation reinstating Columbus Day and calling Columbus a “true American hero,” signaling a shift away from prior emphasis on Indigenous Peoples’ Day. New York Post+2Houston Chronicle+2
- In contrast, under President Joe Biden’s administration, Indigenous Peoples’ Day received greater emphasis starting in 2021. Wikipedia+1
- There are proposals floated by Trump for new national holidays—for example, days commemorating U.S. victories in the World Wars—though he has indicated they may not yield additional paid days off. The Economic Times+1
What This Means for You (as a U.S. Resident or Visitor)
- Plan Ahead for Transactions
If you have time-sensitive payments, wire transfers, or bank needs, do them today or anticipate delays since ACH and interbank clearing are affected. The Sun+2Barron’s+2 - Check Local Observances
Your local city or state may either close schools and municipal offices or host Indigenous Peoples’ Day events. Practices vary greatly. Holidays and Observances+3Wikipedia+3Time and Date+3 - Use Digital Services
For banking and mailing needs, online tools, ATM access, and scheduled payments may help circumvent closures. The Sun+3The Sun+3The Economic Times+3 - Stay Weather-Aware
In areas like New York City, severe weather disrupted public events like parades. If you’re planning to be out, check local forecasts and advisories. New York Post - Engage Thoughtfully
Use this as an opportunity to reflect on U.S. history from multiple perspectives—European, Indigenous, and immigrant narratives. The changing observance of this holiday signals shifting public values.