Columbus Day has been a long standing tradition in the United States, offering millions of Americans a mid autumn holiday. While originally established to commemorate Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas, in recent decades the day has evolved, with many states recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day as an alternative or in addition. Regardless of its name or observance, for many employees Columbus Day presents a valuable opportunity to enjoy time off, recharge, and make the most of their PTO.
As we look ahead to Columbus Day 2026, now is the perfect time to plan how you can maximize the holiday for a memorable and restful break.
When Is Columbus Day 2026?
In 2026, Columbus Day will be observed on Monday, October 12. Because the holiday is always celebrated on the second Monday in October, the exact date shifts each year. This year, the three-day weekend runs from Saturday, October 10, through Monday, October 12.
This built in long weekend is a prime opportunity for travel, family time, or even just some well deserved rest without having to use multiple PTO days. The timing in mid October also means pleasant fall weather in most parts of the country, making it a great time to plan activities outdoors or enjoy seasonal traditions.
Who Observes Columbus Day?
Columbus Day is recognized as a federal holiday, meaning federal offices, post offices, and most banks will be closed. However, observance varies widely across the country.
Full Observance States: Many states in the Northeast and Midwest, such as New York, Massachusetts, and Illinois, continue to observe Columbus Day as a public holiday.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day Observance: States like Maine, New Mexico, Minnesota, and Vermont officially celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead, honoring the culture and contributions of Native Americans.
Dual Observance: Some states, including Washington and Alaska, recognize both Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
Non Observing States: A few states, such as Hawaii and South Dakota, do not officially recognize Columbus Day at all, instead celebrating other cultural or historical observances.
Because of these differences, it’s important for employees to check their company holiday calendar and confirm whether their employer recognizes Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, or both.
Why Columbus Day Is Ideal for PTO Planning
Columbus Day creates a natural long weekend, which makes it easier for employees to enjoy time off without needing to use many vacation days. But beyond convenience, there are several reasons why it’s a particularly smart time to plan PTO.
Minimal PTO Use: Since the holiday falls on a Monday, you can enjoy three consecutive days off without using any PTO at all. Adding just one PTO day on Friday, October 9, extends the weekend to four days plenty of time for a road trip, domestic flight, or even a short international getaway.
Perfect Autumn Timing: Early to mid October is one of the most scenic times of the year across much of the U.S., with fall foliage at its peak in northern states. The weather is typically cool and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, apple picking, or enjoying seasonal festivals.
Lower Travel Costs: Compared to the busy and often expensive travel season that begins in November with Thanksgiving and extends through the winter holidays, October tends to offer more affordable airfare, lodging, and vacation packages.
Mental and Physical Recharge: With the end of the year approaching, many employees begin to experience burnout. Columbus Day weekend provides a timely chance to step away, relax, and return to work feeling refreshed before the holiday rush.
How to Maximize Time Off Around Columbus Day 2026
If you want to make the most of Columbus Day weekend, consider these PTO strategies:
Take Friday, October 9 Off Enjoy a 4-Day Weekend:
By using just one PTO day, you can extend your weekend to four days (October 9–12). This is perfect for those who want a quick trip without exhausting their PTO balance. It’s enough time for a nearby road trip, a family visit, or a staycation where you can relax without the stress of travel.Take Friday, October 9 and Tuesday, October 13 Off Create a 5-Day Break:
If you can spare two PTO days, you’ll create a full five days getaway. This allows for longer domestic travel or international trips to destinations like Canada, the Caribbean, or Mexico, giving you a proper vacation without taking an entire week off.Leverage Remote Work Flexibility:
If your employer allows hybrid or remote work, consider combining work and leisure by working from a different city or renting a short-term Airbnb. This way, you can enjoy a change of scenery while still keeping up with your professional responsibilities.Plan Around Local Observances:
Depending on whether your state observes Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples’ Day, your company may offer different schedules. Double-check to see if you automatically get the holiday off or if you’ll need to request it.
Top Travel Ideas for Columbus Day Weekend 2026
Since Columbus Day falls in mid October, it’s the perfect time for seasonal travel. Here are some of the best options:
U.S. Destinations
New England: Known worldwide for its dazzling autumn foliage, destinations like Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine offer scenic drives, charming small towns, and fall festivals.
Chicago, Illinois: Enjoy the crisp fall weather while exploring museums, music festivals, and seasonal food markets.
Nashville, Tennessee: With live music, Southern cuisine, and a lively atmosphere, Nashville is a great choice for a long weekend getaway.
Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina: Famous for its hiking trails and spectacular fall colors, the Smokies provide a beautiful outdoor escape.
International Options
Canada: Montreal and Quebec City are just a short flight away from many U.S. cities, offering European charm with stunning autumn scenery.
Caribbean Islands: With warm weather and relatively short flights, destinations like Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas are ideal for a tropical escape.
Mexico: Spots like Cancún or Tulum offer sun soaked beaches, while Mexico City provides a cultural city break with museums, markets, and history.
PTO Planning Tips for Employees
Successfully planning your Columbus Day weekend requires more than just submitting a request. To ensure a smooth experience:
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Submit Your PTO Request Early
Columbus Day weekend is a popular time for travel, which means managers often receive multiple time off requests. Submitting your request months in advance increases the chances of approval. -
Coordinate With Coworkers
Check if others on your team also plan to be away. Too many people requesting the same days can lead to conflicts. Using a PTO tracking tool like Day Off can help avoid overlaps. -
Track Your PTO Balance
Before making travel plans, review your PTO balance to ensure you have enough hours to cover your desired time off. Running short may mean you’ll need to adjust your trip or use unpaid leave. -
Look Out for Company Blackout Dates
Some companies enforce blockout periods during busy times, when employees cannot take PTO. Verify that early October isn’t restricted in your workplace. -
Plan for Work Coverage
Provide a clear handoff plan for tasks that will need attention while you’re away. This shows responsibility and makes managers more likely to approve your request.
How Employers Can Manage Columbus Day PTO
For managers and HR teams, Columbus Day can mean a surge in PTO requests. To maintain balance and fairness in the workplace:
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Use a PTO Management Tool: Platforms like Day Off make it easy to track requests, approve time off, and prevent scheduling conflicts.
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Communicate Holiday Policies Early: Share updated holiday calendars well in advance so employees can plan accordingly.
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Balance Team Coverage: Encourage employees to submit requests early and stagger time off where possible to ensure smooth operations.
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Acknowledge Different Observances: Be mindful that some employees may prefer to observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Columbus Day. Offering flexibility or floating holidays can help.
FAQs
When is Columbus Day in 2026?
Columbus Day in 2026 will be observed on Monday, October 12. The holiday is always celebrated on the second Monday of October, which means the exact date changes each year.
Is Columbus Day 2026 a federal holiday?
Yes. Columbus Day is a federal holiday, meaning federal offices, post offices, and most banks will be closed. However, not all states observe it the same way some recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead or alongside Columbus Day.
Do all states celebrate Columbus Day?
No. Observance varies by state.
Some states, like New York, Massachusetts, and Illinois, continue to celebrate Columbus Day as a public holiday.
Others, like Maine, Minnesota, and New Mexico, have replaced it with Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
A few states, such as Hawaii and South Dakota, do not officially recognize Columbus Day at all.
Will I get Columbus Day off from work in 2026?
It depends on your employer. Federal employees generally get the day off, but private companies decide their own holiday schedules. Some workplaces may remain open, while others give employees a day off or offer a floating holiday. Be sure to check your company’s holiday calendar.
How can I make the most of Columbus Day weekend with PTO?
You can extend the holiday into a longer break by adding PTO days:
Take Friday, October 9 off enjoy a 4 days weekend.
Take Friday, October 9 and Tuesday, October 13 off create a 5 days vacation.
Planning early and requesting PTO in advance ensures better chances of approval.
What are popular travel destinations for Columbus Day 2026?
Many travelers take advantage of the long weekend for fall getaways. Popular choices include:
New England for fall foliage.
The Great Smoky Mountains for hiking and autumn views.
Nashville or Chicago for culture, food, and festivals.
Caribbean and Mexico for a warm-weather escape.
Does the stock market close on Columbus Day?
No. Unlike most federal holidays, the U.S. stock market (NYSE and NASDAQ) remains open on Columbus Day. However, bond markets typically close.
How does Columbus Day affect schools?
Many public schools close in states where Columbus Day is observed as a holiday. In other states, schools may remain open but sometimes use the day for teacher in service training instead of regular classes.
How can employers fairly manage PTO around Columbus Day?
Employers can manage high PTO demand around Columbus Day by:
Using a leave management tool like Day Off to track requests.
Encouraging employees to submit PTO requests early.
Communicating holiday policies clearly.
Offering flexible scheduling or floating holidays to accommodate different observances.
What’s the difference between Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
Columbus Day commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors the culture, history, and contributions of Native American peoples.
The observance depends on the state and sometimes on individual employers.