Banks Closed Monday: What to Know About Columbus Day in Alabama
If you’re planning to run errands or visit the bank on Monday, you might want to double-check your schedule. Many services across Alabama will be closed in observance of Columbus Day, a federal holiday that carries both history and reflection.
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A Day with Two Names and Many Meanings
Columbus Day, marked each year on the second Monday in October, commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492. But in recent decades, the day has evolved into something more nuanced and, for many, more meaningful.
Across the country, including here in Alabama, it’s also recognized as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, a time to honor the rich cultures, resilience, and histories of Native American communities whose stories long predate Columbus’s voyage.
Alabama’s Triple Holiday
In Alabama, the calendar takes it a step further. The state observes Columbus Day, Fraternal Day, and American Indian Heritage Day all on the same date. Together, they weave a tapestry of remembrance that acknowledges exploration, community service, and the deep-rooted heritage of America’s first peoples.
What’s Open and What’s Not
Most banks and federal offices will be closed on Monday, October 13. The U.S. Postal Service will also pause mail delivery for the day. However, if you’re expecting a package, there’s some good news: UPS and FedEx will continue normal operations.
Retail stores, restaurants, and many local businesses typically remain open, though hours may vary. Government offices and schools may also be closed depending on local policies.
A Moment to Reflect
Whether you view the day as Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, or both, it’s an opportunity to pause and consider the layered history of this country, the discoveries, the displacements, and the cultures that continue to shape who we are.
As Alabama observes its trio of holidays, Monday stands as both a day off and a day of acknowledgment, a reminder that history is never one-sided, and that reflection is one of the most meaningful ways to honor the past.
