Is Today a Federal Holiday? Everything You Need to Know in the U.S.

Every few weeks, Americans across the country wake up wondering: “Is today a federal holiday?” Whether you’re planning a bank visit, mailing a package, or managing government paperwork, this question can determine how your day unfolds.

As of October 13, 2025, the answer is yes — today is a federal holiday. The United States observes Columbus Day, one of the recognized federal holidays that often brings changes in public and private sector schedules.

In this post, we’ll explain what makes a day a federal holiday, what’s open and closed today, and why this topic is trending across the U.S.

🗓️ What Is a Federal Holiday?

A federal holiday is an official public holiday recognized by the U.S. government under Title 5 of the United States Code (5 U.S.C. § 6103). On these days, federal employees typically receive a paid day off, and most government offices close.

However, not every organization must follow the federal calendar.

State governments may choose whether to recognize each holiday.

Private companies often decide independently whether to close or stay open.

This means that while the federal government observes the holiday, you may still find many businesses, restaurants, and retail stores operating normally.

🇺🇸 Why Today Is a Federal Holiday: Columbus Day 2025

Columbus Day, observed on the second Monday of October, commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. In 2025, it falls on October 13.

While it remains a federal holiday, many states and cities now recognize this same day as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, honoring the history and cultures of Native American communities.

The dual observance reflects America’s evolving understanding of history and diversity — one reason why this topic trends every October.

🏛️ What’s Closed Today?

Since today is officially recognized by the federal government, several services are either closed or operating on limited schedules:

Federal Offices: Most government departments and agencies, including the IRS and Social Security Administration, are closed.

Post Offices (USPS): Mail delivery and retail operations are suspended.

Banks and Credit Unions: Many follow the Federal Reserve schedule and remain closed.

Courts: Federal courts typically do not hold sessions on this day.

It’s best to check with local branches or offices before heading out since some private institutions may choose to remain open.

💼 What’s Still Open on a Federal Holiday?

Even though today is a holiday, not everything shuts down. Here’s what you can still expect to access:

Online Banking: Digital transactions and ATMs remain available.

Stock Markets: Both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ stay open on Columbus Day.

Grocery Stores & Retail Chains: Most remain open for regular business hours.

Restaurants and Cafes: Generally open and often busier due to the long weekend.

In short — while government operations pause, most daily conveniences continue running as usual.

📅 List of Upcoming U.S. Federal Holidays in 2025

If you’re planning ahead, here are the official federal holidays for 2025:

New Year’s Day — Wednesday, January 1

Martin Luther King Jr. Day — Monday, January 20

Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day) — Monday, February 17

Memorial Day — Monday, May 26

Juneteenth National Independence Day — Thursday, June 19

Independence Day — Friday, July 4

Labor Day — Monday, September 1

Columbus Day — Monday, October 13

Veterans Day — Tuesday, November 11

Thanksgiving Day — Thursday, November 27

Christmas Day — Thursday, December 25

Knowing these dates helps individuals and businesses plan travel, payments, or government appointments accordingly.

🔍 How to Check If It’s a Federal Holiday Anytime

Instead of relying on social media trends or guesswork, you can always verify federal holidays through official sources:

U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM): Publishes the complete list of federal holidays annually.

Federal Reserve Bank: Lists banking holidays and closure dates.

TimeandDate.com: Offers an up-to-date holiday calendar for the United States.

Local News Outlets: Often confirm what’s open or closed each holiday morning.

Bookmarking one of these can save you time and confusion in the future.

🕊️ Final Thoughts

So, to answer the trending question: Yes, today is a federal holiday — Columbus Day.

While federal workers enjoy a day off and many institutions close, private life in America continues largely uninterrupted.

Whether you’re honoring the historic significance of the day or simply enjoying the long weekend, understanding federal holidays helps you plan smarter and stay informed.