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What's Open Today in California? Navigating Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day 2025

Hey California! Wondering what’s open and closed today, October 13, 2025? It's a mixed bag, as we observe both Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day. While some services take a break, others operate as usual. Let's break it down, so you know whether you can expect mail, hit the stock market, or need to plan around bank closures.

Mail Delivery on Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day: Don't Expect a Package

First things first: no mail today. According to The Hill, you won’t be getting any letters or packages delivered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). Columbus Day is a federal holiday, and that means your mail carrier gets the day off. So, if you're waiting for that crucial package, you'll have to be patient until Tuesday.

Is the Stock Market Open? Good News for Investors

For those of you keeping an eye on your investments, there's some good news. USA Today reports that the stock market is open on Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day. So, you can continue to trade and monitor your portfolios as usual. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq will be operating on their regular schedules.

Banks and Government Offices: Plan Ahead for Closures

Most banks and government offices will be closed today. This is standard practice for federal holidays. If you need to conduct any banking in person, you’ll need to wait until Tuesday. Similarly, expect your local DMV, city hall, and other government services to be unavailable. Plan accordingly!

Why the Two Names? Understanding the Holiday

You might be wondering why we’re calling it both Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day. It’s a reflection of an ongoing shift in how we view history. Columbus Day, traditionally observed on the second Monday of October, commemorates Christopher Columbus' arrival in the Americas. However, in recent years, there's been a growing movement to recognize the holiday as Indigenous Peoples' Day, honoring the history and culture of Native American tribes and acknowledging the impact of colonization.

In 2021, President Biden issued the first-ever presidential proclamation declaring October 11 as Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This marked a significant step toward recognizing the historical injustices faced by Native Americans.

Trump's Columbus Day Proclamation: A Different Perspective

It’s worth noting that prior to President Biden's proclamation, President Trump also issued a Columbus Day proclamation. According to NPR, Trump's proclamation aimed to "reclaim" Columbus' legacy. This highlights the differing perspectives on the holiday and its significance.

Recent Updates and Developments

• October 2021: President Biden issues the first presidential proclamation for Indigenous Peoples' Day.
• Ongoing: Many cities and states across the US have officially replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day.
• 2025: Both Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day are observed on October 13th, leading to some confusion about closures and operations.

A Deeper Dive: The Historical and Cultural Context

The shift from Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples' Day reflects a broader societal reckoning with the legacy of colonialism and the treatment of Native Americans. For many, celebrating Columbus Day feels insensitive, given the historical impact of European colonization on indigenous populations.

Indigenous Peoples' Day aims to provide an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Native American tribes. It's a day for education, reflection, and honoring the resilience of indigenous communities.

Immediate Effects: More Than Just a Day Off

The dual recognition of Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day has several immediate effects:

• Increased Awareness: It sparks conversations about history, colonization, and the rights of indigenous peoples.
• Community Events: Many communities host events to celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day, showcasing Native American culture and traditions.
• Political Debate: The holiday often becomes a focal point for political discussions about historical narratives and social justice.

Looking Ahead: What Does the Future Hold?

The future of Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day is likely to continue evolving. We can anticipate:

• Further Shifts: More cities and states may officially replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day.
• Educational Initiatives: Increased efforts to educate the public about Native American history and culture.
• Continued Dialogue: Ongoing conversations about how to best honor the past and promote inclusivity.

Navigating the Day: Practical Tips for Californians

So, what does all this mean for you today? Here are a few practical tips:

• Plan Ahead: Since banks and government offices are closed, take care of any necessary errands on Tuesday.
• Learn Something New: Take some time to learn about the history and culture of Native American tribes in California.
• Attend a Local Event: Check if there are any Indigenous Peoples' Day events happening in your community.
• Reflect: Consider the historical significance of the day and its implications for our society.

California's Native American Heritage: A Brief Overview

California is home to a diverse array of Native American tribes, each with its own unique history, culture, and traditions. Before European colonization, California was one of the most densely populated regions of North America, with a thriving indigenous population.

Some of the prominent tribes in California include:

• Yurok: Known for their intricate basketry and salmon fishing traditions.
• Karuk: Located in northwestern California, they have a strong connection to the Klamath River.
• Pomo: Skilled basket weavers and known for their diverse language family.
• Chumash: Inhabited the coastal regions of Southern California and were skilled seafarers.
• Tongva: The original inhabitants of the Los Angeles Basin.

These tribes, and many others, have played a vital role in shaping California's history and culture. Recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day is an opportunity to honor their contributions and acknowledge the challenges they have faced.

Supporting Indigenous Communities in California

There are many ways to support indigenous communities in California:

• Learn About Local Tribes: Educate yourself about the history, culture, and current issues facing Native American tribes in your area.
• Support Native-Owned Businesses: Look for opportunities to support businesses owned and operated by Native Americans.
• Donate to Indigenous Organizations: Consider donating to organizations that support Native American education, cultural preservation, and economic development.
• Advocate for Policy Changes: Support policies that promote the rights and well-being of indigenous communities.
• Attend Cultural Events: Participate in cultural events and celebrations organized by Native American tribes.

Conclusion: A Day of Reflection and Recognition

Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day is a complex holiday with a rich history and evolving significance. While it may mean a day off for some, it's also a time for reflection, education, and recognition. By understanding the historical context and supporting indigenous communities, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all Californians. So, enjoy your day, whether you're catching up on errands, spending time with family, or taking a moment to learn something new. Just remember to plan around those closures and appreciate the opportunity to honor the diverse cultures that make California so unique.