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Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Honor Indigenous Peoples' Day with a tribute to the strength, resilience, and rich culture of native peoples around the world!

Monday

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESecond Monday in October

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYIndigenous

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On October 9, let's join together to recognize and honor Indigenous Peoples' Day. This day was created to celebrate the rich heritage of Native Americans and their contributions to society. It is also a great opportunity for us to reflect on our shared history and learn more about the culture, traditions, and beliefs of indigenous people around the world. From attending events that highlight native art, music, and cuisine, to volunteering in your local community – there are many ways to show your support and appreciation for this important holiday. So let's all come together to make Indigenous Peoples' Day a special one!

TIMELINE

Indigenous Peoples’ Day Timeline

Initial Proposal

The idea of an Indigenous Peoples' Day was first proposed at a United Nations conference on discrimination against indigenous populations in the Americas.

Berkeley Observance

Berkeley, California became the first city in the US to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day, commemorating the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus' arrival in the Americas with a perspective on its impact on indigenous people.

Seattle and Minneapolis Join

Seattle and Minneapolis also made the switch to honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Columbus Day, starting a national trend in US cities.

First US State Recognition

Vermont and South Dakota recognize the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples' Day, becoming the first states in the US to do so.

More State Recognitions

Several more US states, including Maine, New Mexico, and Nevada, officially replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day, giving greater acknowledgement to the history and contributions of indigenous people.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Read a book

Pick up a book by an Indigenous author that celebrates the history and culture of Indigenous Peoples. There are many books available, so take your time to find one that interests you.

ATTEND

Attend a celebration

Look for an event in your area that celebrates Indigenous Peoples' Day. This can be a powwow, festival, or other gathering. It's a great way to meet people, learn more about Indigenous cultures, and celebrate the day.

WATCH

Watch a documentary

Watch a documentary about Native American or indigenous peoples from around the world. There are many available online and on streaming services, so take your time to find one that interests you.

VISIT

Visit a museum

Visit a museum that showcases the history and culture of Indigenous Peoples. You can learn more about their customs, art, music, and history in an interactive way.

SUPPORT

Support local businesses

Support local Indigenous businesses in your area. Many of them offer unique products and services that can help you learn more about Indigenous culture and traditions.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Indigenous Peoples’ Day is Important

It educates others about indigenous histories & cultures

The celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day provides an opportunity to educate others about the history and culture of Indigenous peoples around the world. It is also an important chance to highlight current issues facing Indigenous populations and learn how we can all work together to create positive change.

It honors and celebrates Indigenous cultures

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an important holiday that celebrates Indigenous cultures all over the world. It is a time to reflect on the history of Indigenous peoples and honor their contributions to society. It's also an opportunity to celebrate the current Indigenous populations and learn more about their diverse cultural practices.

It recognizes Indigenous rights

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a reminder of the need for recognition and respect for Indigenous rights. This includes not only basic human rights such as health, education and freedom from discrimination, but also Native land treaties, self-governance and other specific rights enshrined in international law.