Celebrate Columbus Day in the North End

Columbus Day, a nationally recognized federal holiday, falls on Monday and, interestingly enough, right in the middle of Italian Heritage Month.

While it is an opportunity for some to sleep in on a Monday, the holiday itself is also interesting, and a great time to celebrate and shop.

Columbus Day remembers Italian explorer Christopher Columbus’ long journey across the Atlantic Ocean to the “New World." The voyage was victorious when land was first spotted on Oct. 12, 1492.

The day is also considered a celebration of Italian heritage, as well as a huge shopping day in the U.S. 

President Franklin Delano Roosevelt is responsible for making the holiday a federal one in 1937.

What is closed on Columbus Day? Most banks, government offices and the U.S. Postal Service will be closed to observe the holiday.

What's going on to honor the day in the neighborhood? The Friends of Christopher Columbus Park will hold a celebration with a parade starting at 10 a.m., followed by a ceremony at the statue of Columbus at 11 a.m. Soon after, there will be family events all day. 

Tell us: What are your plans for Columbus Day? Shopping? Relaxation? Celebration?