Curious to know which states celebrate Columbus Day? Look no further! In this article, we will delve into the fascinating topic of Columbus Day celebrated in what states. From the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of Alaska, this national holiday is observed in various parts of the United States. Join us as we explore the states that honor Christopher Columbus and commemorate his important historical legacy. Let’s embark on this journey of discovery together!
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Columbus Day Celebrated in What States
Columbus Day is a holiday that is celebrated in the United States to honor Christopher Columbus, the Italian explorer who is credited with discovering America. While it is a federal holiday, Columbus Day is not observed in all states. In fact, there are some states that do not officially recognize Columbus Day or choose to celebrate it differently. In this article, we will explore the states where Columbus Day is celebrated and how it is observed.
1. States That Celebrate Columbus Day
Columbus Day is officially recognized and celebrated in the following states:
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Tennessee
- Utah
- Vermont
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
These states celebrate Columbus Day either by closing government offices, schools, and businesses or by holding parades and other events to commemorate the occasion.
2. States That Do Not Celebrate Columbus Day
While Columbus Day is widely celebrated across the United States, there are a few states that do not officially recognize or celebrate the holiday. These states include:
- Alaska
- California
- Florida
- Michigan
- South Dakota
- Washington
In these states, Columbus Day is not a legal holiday, and government offices, schools, and businesses usually remain open. However, some cities or communities within these states may still choose to hold events or parades to honor Columbus and commemorate his historical significance.
3. Alternative Observances
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to replace or rename Columbus Day with alternative observances that focus on Indigenous Peoples’ Day or Native American Day. These alternative observances aim to recognize and honor the Native American cultures and contributions, while also acknowledging the controversial history surrounding Columbus and the impact on Indigenous communities.
Some states, such as Vermont and Maine, have officially replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day. In these states, the holiday is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the heritage, history, and contributions of Native Americans.
Other states, like Hawaii, choose to celebrate Discoverers’ Day, which recognizes the Polynesian explorers and their discoveries that led to the settlement of the Hawaiian Islands.
4. Columbus Day Parades and Festivities
In states where Columbus Day is celebrated, parades and festivals are common ways to commemorate the occasion. These events often feature marching bands, floats, cultural performances, and displays of Italian heritage.
One of the most famous Columbus Day parades takes place in New York City, where millions of people gather to watch the vibrant procession along Fifth Avenue. The parade showcases various ethnic groups, organizations, and Italian-American cultural pride.
Similarly, other cities across the country, such as Chicago, Boston, and San Francisco, also hold Columbus Day parades, attracting locals and visitors alike.
5. The Controversies Surrounding Columbus Day
While Columbus Day has been celebrated for centuries, it has also become a subject of controversy and debate. Critics argue that the holiday overlooks the negative impact of colonization on Indigenous populations and perpetuates a Eurocentric perspective of history.
In recent years, there has been a push for a more inclusive approach, with some states and cities opting for alternative observances to acknowledge the Indigenous peoples who were already present in America when Columbus arrived.
Understanding the complexities surrounding Columbus Day and its impact on different communities is essential in promoting a more comprehensive and inclusive understanding of history.
Columbus Day is celebrated in many states across the United States, but not all states officially recognize or observe the holiday. While it continues to be a federal holiday, some states have chosen alternative observances or do not celebrate Columbus Day at all. The controversies surrounding Columbus Day highlight the importance of acknowledging diverse perspectives and histories while also honoring the contributions and cultures of Indigenous peoples. Whether celebrated as Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, or another alternative, the goal remains the same – to foster understanding, respect, and unity among all communities.
Why the US celebrates Columbus Day
Frequently Asked Questions
Which states celebrate Columbus Day?
Columbus Day is celebrated in several states across the United States. However, it is important to note that not all states observe this holiday. The states that currently recognize Columbus Day as a public holiday include:
Is Columbus Day a national holiday in the United States?
Yes, Columbus Day is recognized as a national holiday in the United States. However, it is important to mention that there has been ongoing debate regarding the celebration of Columbus Day, with some states and cities choosing to rename or replace it with alternative observances.
Are there states that do not observe Columbus Day?
Yes, there are states that do not observe Columbus Day as a public holiday. For instance, Hawaii, Alaska, Oregon, and South Dakota are among the states that do not officially recognize or celebrate Columbus Day. In some cases, these states have chosen to observe alternative holidays or events instead.
Have any states replaced Columbus Day with another holiday?
Yes, several states and cities have opted to replace or rename Columbus Day with alternative holidays or observances. For example, some places now recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day or Native American Day as a way to honor and acknowledge the history and contributions of indigenous cultures instead of celebrating Christopher Columbus.
Why is there a controversy surrounding the celebration of Columbus Day?
The controversy surrounding Columbus Day stems from differing views on the impact and legacy of Christopher Columbus. Critics argue that celebrating Columbus Day ignores the historical mistreatment and colonization of indigenous peoples that occurred after Columbus’ arrival. Some advocates suggest that a more inclusive holiday, such as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, would be a more appropriate way to recognize and respect all cultures.
Final Thoughts
Columbus Day, a celebration of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492, is celebrated in some states across the United States. The states that currently observe Columbus Day as a public holiday are: Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. While some states have chosen to no longer recognize Columbus Day, it is still celebrated in many parts of the country.