Join DCYF in recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Monday, Oct. 12. Indigenous Peoples’ Day recognizes that Native people are the first inhabitants of the Americas, including the lands that later became the United States. Falling on the same day as Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day encourages Americans to rethink and reevaluate our nation’s history. Support of this day is an effort to refocus Columbus Day, a holiday that glorifies Christopher Columbus and an exploration that led to the mass genocide of Native peoples.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day was first federally recognized by the Biden administration in 2021. While not a federal holiday, many states (including Washington) observe the second Monday of October as an annual celebration honoring Native communities.
The initial proposal to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day came about in 1977 at the United Nations International Conference on Discrimination against Indigenous Populations in the Americas. The movement has since gained momentum, with support spreading to states, cities and towns across the U.S.
Local Events / Office Closures
- 2026 Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration | Bellingham, WA
- Indigenous Peoples' Day Celebration, Squaxin Island Tribe/City of Olympia | Olympia, WA
- Indigenous Peoples Day – Following the Elders | Spokane, WA
- Central Washington University's First Peoples’ Art Market | Ellensburg, WA
Seattle
- King County holiday closures and service impacts
- City Hall Flag Raising & More
- Indigenous Peoples’ Day @ Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center
- Indigenous Peoples’ Day: A Day to Celebrate, Pier 58
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all events taking place in Washington.
