Columbus Day, a nationally recognized federal holiday, falls on Monday, Oct. 8 this year. While it is an opportunity for some to sleep in on a Monday, the holiday itself is also interesting, and a great time to celebrate and shop.
Columbus Day remembers Italian explorer Christopher Columbus’ long journey across the Atlantic Ocean to the “New World." The voyage was victorious when land was first spotted on Oct. 12, 1492.
The day is also considered a celebration of Italian heritage, as well as a huge shopping day in the U.S.
Macy's, Sears, and Best Buy are among many local chain stores that will feature storewide sales on Monday. Amazon will have a Columbus Day sale online.
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt is responsible for making the holiday a federal one in 1937.
What things are open and closed locally on Columbus Day?
Closed:
Most banks, Federal, county and city government offices and the U.S. Postal Service will be closed to observe the holiday. Milpitas City Hall, however, is open normal business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Courts and libraries will be closed, and the Postal Service will not be delivering mail.
Open:
Most schools will be open.
The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) will operate buses and light rail on a regular schedule on Columbus Day.
Garbage and recycling trucks will be working as usual in the neighborhoods.
Most malls and supermarkets will be open.
Tell us: What are your plans for Columbus Day? Shopping? Relaxation? Celebration?
Update, Oct. 8: "Closed" section edited to reflect that while many government offices are closed, Milpitas' is open for business.
