Columbus Day 2011 Celebrations

Columbus Day tends to be one of the most controversial holidays celebrated in the United States. The original intent of the holiday is to commemorate the date that Christopher Columbus discovered America. However, many view the historical event as the beginning of a dark period for indigenous people. Some areas of the United States, such as Hawaii, Nevada and California, choose not to celebrate Columbus Day. Despite contentious views, most people do concede that the discovery of America forever changed the world, and many see that as a reason to celebrate.

When Is Columbus Day?

Columbus Day 2011 will take place on October 10, 2011. While the actual date of Columbus's discovery occurred on October 12, 1492, the national holiday is similar to Labor Day and other holidays that fall on a set day of the week in a particular month. For Columbus Day, the national holiday falls on the second Monday of October.

Where Can You Celebrate Columbus Day?

Your local municipality may be hosting some type of Columbus Day event, such as a parade. Certain churches, especially ones with an European heritage, may offer special services. The most notable Columbus Day parades take place in New York and San Francisco, and the cities hail the event as an Italian/American celebration.

New York's parade, on Monday, October 10, 2011, begins at 11:30 a.m. and runs until 2 p.m. You won't want to watch this one form your windows! The route starts at 5th Avenue and 47th Street and ends at 5th Avenue and 79th Street. With origins dating back to 1929, the annual event now attracts over 35,000 individuals. Participants can also attend Columbus Day Mass at 9:30 a.m. at St. Patrick's Cathedral, located on 50th Street and 5th Avenue.

The Columbus Day celebration in San Francisco is the oldest civic event hosted in the city. In fact, it is the oldest parade honoring the Italian heritage in the U.S. Sunday, October 9, 2011 will mark the 143rd annual parade, and the route will run from Fisherman's Wharf to North Beach and end at St. Peter and St Paul's Church in Washington Square. While the city promotes the event's connection to cultural history, participants include individuals dressed as Christopher Columbus and Queen Isabella. All the activities are free for parade viewers.

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Are There Any Alternative Columbus Day Celebrations?

If you prefer not to celebrate Christopher Columbus, you may wish to participate in an alternative celebration. Some areas have renamed their Columbus Day celebrations to Discoverers' Day or Landing Day.

While some states celebrate the European discovery of the United States under the name Discoverers' Day, the event has a different meaning in Hawaii, although it falls on the same date. The Hawaiian event actually celebrates the Polynesian discovery of the islands. The event is not a state holiday, but many people in the area choose to celebrate it.

South Dakota and California host Native American's Day instead of Columbus Day. During the celebration, people can learn about the heritage of native tribes, including the Lakota, Nakota and Dakota tribes. Educational activities take place at the Crazy Horse Memorial and other significant places throughout the states.

You can find a variety of activities to enjoy on Columbus Day, even if they have a different cultural background than what a traditional event might have. If your area doesn't have a Columbus Day event scheduled, find out whether it will host a different celebration on October 10, 2011. For more information on national holidays, visit our DIY blog.