What is Columbus Day?
Columbus Day is a special day which is celebrated on the second Monday of October annually. The purpose of this special day is commemorating Christopher Columbus who was one of the most explorers in the whole history and his arrival in the Americas in 1942. Christopher Columbus is also portrayed as the explorer of the New World but this idea hasn’t got general acceptance.
Because of the fact that Christopher Columbus was an Italian, Columbus Day had originated as an American - Italian celebration. It was first held San Fransisco, in 1869. The first celebration in the history of Columbus Day had organized in Colorado in 1907. Finally, in 1937, Columbus Day became a holiday in United States and it has been celebrated on the second Monday of Octo-ber. In Latin America, Columbus Day is called "Día de la Raza” (“Day of the Race”). Also, Spanish people call Columbus Day de la Hispanidad" and "Fiesta Nacional”. In Argentina it is called Día del Respeto a la Diversidad Cultural (Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity). In Italy it is called Giornata Nazionale di Cristoforo Colombo or Festa Nazionale di Cristoforo Colombo. In every country, Columbus Day is called as different names.
Columbus Day is not a public holiday, that’s why many businesses and offices are open during this day. Also, schools usually do not break up in Columbus Day. But, just in case, it is better to check whether they are open or closed in this day. Columbus Day is celebrated with various cer-emonies such as public events, conferences, parades and different celebrations.
When is Columbus Day?
Columbus Day celebrations are happening on the second Monday in October annually. The next Columbus Day is on Monday, October 8, 2018. Columbus Day in 2019 will be celebrated on Monday, October 14, 2019.
Dates for Columbus Day from 2019 to 2023
- Columbus Day 2019 - October 14, 2019 - Monday
- Columbus Day 2020 - October 12, 2020 - Monday
- Columbus Day 2021 - October 11, 2021 - Monday
- Columbus Day 2022 - October 10, 2022 - Monday
- Columbus Day 2023 - October 9, 2023 - Monday