Is there any public holidays in October?

October is a month filled with a variety of cultural and historical events, and it’s not uncommon for many countries to have public holidays during this time. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply curious about the holiday schedule, here’s a comprehensive look at some of the public holidays in October around the world.

1. United States

In the United States, October 12th is Columbus Day, a federal holiday that celebrates the anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the Americas in 1492. However, it’s important to note that Columbus Day is not observed in all states, as some have replaced it with Indigenous Peoples’ Day or another holiday.

2. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has several public holidays in October. The most notable ones include:

– October 31st: Halloween – While not a public holiday, Halloween is widely celebrated in the UK with parties, costumes, and trick-or-treating.
– November 5th: Guy Fawkes Night – Also known as Bonfire Night, this public holiday commemorates the failure of the Gunpowder Plot in 1605. Celebrations typically include fireworks, bonfires, and the burning of effigies.
– November 12th: Remembrance Day – A public holiday to honor those who lost their lives in wars, with a two-minute silence observed at 11 AM.

3. Canada

Canada also has a few public holidays in October, including:

– October 12th: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – A federal holiday established to recognize the legacy of residential schools and the ongoing impacts on Indigenous communities.
– October 25th: Thanksgiving – A public holiday celebrated to give thanks for the harvest, with families gathering for a feast.

4. Australia

In Australia, October 26th is a public holiday known as Australia Day, celebrating the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788. It’s a day to celebrate Australian culture, history, and achievements.

5. New Zealand

New Zealand also celebrates Australia Day on October 26th, as both countries share a common history and cultural ties.

6. Other countries

Several other countries have public holidays in October, including:

– October 1st: Republic Day in India
– October 2nd: Gandhi Jayanti in India
– October 12th: Mexican Independence Day
– October 14th: National Day in Malaysia
– October 31st: Halloween in various countries

In conclusion, October is a month with a variety of public holidays around the world, each celebrating different cultures, events, and historical figures. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply interested in the holiday schedules, it’s always good to be aware of the public holidays in the countries you’re visiting or living in.