Columbus Day

Columbus Day History

Columbus Day commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492. The purpose of the day is to recognise the significant contributions of the voyage to world history, particularly the European exploration, colonisation and eventual globalisation. It is a day marked with various activities, including parades, ceremonies, and educational events, depending on the country and region.

Though Columbus Day has its historical roots in European exploration, it holds significance in Australia due to its connection to broader conversations about colonialism. Australia experienced European colonisation, and the subsequent history has deeply impacted Indigenous peoples. Columbus Day sparks discussions in Australia about the parallels between the history of colonisation in the Americas and Australia, bringing awareness to both the positive and negative aspects of this shared history.

While Columbus Day does not have an official presence on the Australian calendar, some people take the time to acknowledge and engage with the broader history and discussions surrounding the day. Educators, historians, and communities may host events or talks to explore the impact of colonisation in both regions. Columbus Day is typically observed on the second Monday of October.

Columbus Day facts

• Christopher Columbus' first settlement on Hispaniola Island was called Villa de Navidad (Christmas Town)
• In 1971, the official holiday was moved to the second Monday in October in order to give workers in the US a long weekend. This was part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act.

In the News and Trending in Australia for Columbus Day

Top things to do in Australia for Columbus Day

• Eat some good Italian food.
• Watch a parade.
• With the rise of social media and virtual events, individuals might use the day to engage in discussion or share information about Columbus Day on various online platforms, forums, or social media channels.
• Australians with an interest in exploration and history might spend the day visiting museums, libraries, or historical sites associated with European explorers or Australian indigenous cultures. They may learn about the history of exploration and its impact on Australia.