Indigenous Peoples’/Columbus Day 2023: What’s Open And What’s Closed In Massachusetts
Monday, October 9th is Indigenous Peoples’ Day. The day is celebrated instead of Columbus Day in Boston, as well as over two dozen other cities and towns in Massachusetts. It…
A member of Cetiliztli Nauhcampa performs a prayer at Indigenous Peoples Day in Newton, Massachusetts on October 10, 2022. – This is the second time the event has been held in the city. Tribes from around the Americas shared their cultures with the public in the form of prayers, dancing and speeches. The federal holiday to mark Columbus Day is also officially recognized as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, following a proclamation by US President Joe Biden. (Photo by Joseph Prezioso / AFP) (Photo by JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP via Getty Images)
(Photo by JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP via Getty Images)Monday, October 9th is Indigenous Peoples' Day. The day is celebrated instead of Columbus Day in Boston, as well as over two dozen other cities and towns in Massachusetts. It honors Indigenous American peoples, and commemorates their histories and cultures. Meanwhile, more than 300 cities and towns across Massachusetts will be recognizing Columbus Day If you're looking for a way to observe the day, there are several museums and events that are free on Indigenous Peoples' Day.
What's Open And What's Closed For The Holiday
Not everyone gets the day off from work today. But there are many places in Boston, and the state, that are closed. Be sure to check the list before you head out the door!
- Municipal government offices: Closed
- State government offices: Closed
- Schools: Closed
- Registry of Motor Vehicles: Closed
- Federal offices: Closed
- Post offices: Closed
- Banks: Most of them are closed
- Stock market: Open
- State parks: Open
- Grocery stores: Check with the store as hours may vary
- Malls: Open, but hours vary
- Liquor stores: Open
- Trash pickups: Check your local schedule as some may delay pickup by a day.
- Traffic: MassDOT road work outside fixed work zones will not take place from 5 a.m. on Friday until 5 a.m. on Tuesday
- MBTA: Subway, buses and RIDE services will operate on Saturday schedule. Commuter rail and ferries will run on the weekday schedule.
5 Boston Museums And Events That Are Free On Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Monday, October 9th is Indigenous Peoples' Day. The day is celebrated instead of Columbus Day in Boston, and over two dozen other cities and towns in Massachusetts. It honors indigenous American peoples, and commemorates their histories and cultures. If you're looking for a way to observe the day, there are several museums and events that are free on Indigenous Peoples' Day.
Things to do on Indigenous Peoples' Day (and year round)
If you're looking for a way to honor and celebrate Indigenous peoples, the Massachusetts Center For Native American Awareness has several great suggestions. Things to do to celebrate and recognize the lives, culture, and experiences of Indigenous peoples. Here are some to try.
How are museums free for the day?
Every year on Indigenous Peoples' Day, the Fenway Alliance’s Opening Our Doors Festival offers free admission to museums around the city. The Opening Our Doors festival is Boston’s largest day of free cultural experiences. The festival was started by the Fenway Alliance in 2001. It's central mission is to “open the doors” of Boston’s most iconic & historic institutions for a free day of music, art, creativity, performances, and cultural experiences.
Here are some of the great events happening in and around Boston. And the best part? They're all free!
Free Admission at the Mapparium
The Mapparium is a three-story stained-glass globe that offers an immersive experience. It's located within the Mary Baker Eddy Library, and is free on Monday, 10/9 from 10am-4pm.
Free admission at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
To celebrate, you can join local Indigenous artists and activists in a celebration-filled day. There will be art-making, storytelling, performances, and insightful conversations. Get your free tickets HERE.
Free Admission to the Museum of Fine Arts
Your free tickets available in person on a first-come, first-served basis. You do need a valid Massachusetts zip code. This year, admission includes access to “Fashioned by Sargent”—for Massachusetts residents. Enjoy gallery tours, family art-making activities, and more! Get all the info you need HERE.
Free Admission to the ICA
The ICA is offering FREE museum admission on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Monday, October 9. Advanced tickets are required and will be available to reserve beginning on Sunday, October 8 at 10 AM. Ticket info HERE. You will also be able to get a first look at their newest exhibition Forecast Form: Art in the Caribbean Diaspora, 1990s—Today.
3rd Annual Indigenous Peoples Day Ceremonial Celebration in Newton
Indigenous Peoples Day in Newton, MA. All are welcome to this free, family-friendly, Indigenous-led, volunteer-run event to enjoy great music, check out cultural dances & presentations, meet local Indigenous vendors & non-profits, & eat delicious food.
