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Indigenous Peoples’/Columbus Day 2023: What’s Open And What’s Closed In Massachusetts

Author Ramiro
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)

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.

 

Boston has been waking up to the voice of Pebbles for years. She has always had a deep and strong commitment to the community, donating her time to numerous organizations such as the Girl Scouts, First Book Boston, and more. With a passion for youth literacy, she started the program “Pebbles Reading Rockstars” to encourage kids to read more and develop a love of books. A graduate of Northeastern University, the Wareham native continues to visit classrooms as part of the literacy program. Pebbles likes to write about books, personal stories, good news, and self-care.

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.

  • Share and Read Books by Indigenous Peoples. The history of Indigenous peoples is not only left untold, it is excluded, twisted or diminished on purpose.  By reading these books, you can “flip the script” on this past history.

  • Purchase from Local Indigenous Businesses – Consider Indigenous businesses, large and small, when purchasing items for you and your family.

  • Skip Columbus Day – Begin a new tradition with family and friends of observing Indigenous Peoples Day.

  • Share Knowledge About Indigenous Peoples Day – Use your company’s reach and influence to teach others about Indigenous Peoples Day.

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!

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Author Ramiro
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