New Jersey will join the federal government in celebrating Columbus Day on October 14, 2024.
Many state offices and agencies will be closed that day. Many public school students will also have the day off.
The state still celebrates Columbus Day, despite some states renaming the day Indigenous Peoples Day or dropping observations of the holiday altogether.
What is closed on Columbus Day?
United States Postal Services is one of the federal services that will not be operating on Columbus Day. Other federal and state offices will also be closed. For example, the NJMVC offices will be closed.
Although most schools will not be in attendance that day, please check your calendars as some schools may be open.
Why does New Jersey celebrate Columbus Day?
In 1492, Italian explorer Christopher Columbus traveled from Spain and landed in the Caribbean. Despite never reaching the land that would eventually become part of the United States, he was seen as America’s explorer.
Some cities and states recognized Indigenous Peoples Day after controversy over Columbus’ legacy and the way he treated indigenous people already living on the land.
New Jersey, however, is sticking with Columbus Day as a celebration of the Italian-Americans who have lived in the state for generations.
In a 2023 Facebook post, Gov. Phil Murphy said he honors all Italian Americans who have enriched the state through their culture and achievements.
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Does New Jersey Celebrate Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples Day?
