The origins of Columbus Day
Christopher Columbus: a pioneer of exploration
Christopher Columbus, a navigator and explorer of Italian origin, was looking for a shorter route to the East Indies. His quest was supported by Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon, two Spanish monarchs. On 12 October 1492, Columbus set foot in America for the first time, believing he had reached the Indies, hence the name “Indians” given to the local inhabitants.
The celebration takes shape
Three centuries after his discovery, in 1792, the first tribute to Christopher Columbus was organised. The Italians, very proud of their compatriot, celebrated the discovery on 12 October 1866. Thus Columbus Day was born. In 1892, a statue of him was erected on Columbus Avenue.
State celebrations vary
Although celebrated throughout the United States, Columbus Day is marked by significant differences from one state to another. In New York, for example, the day is marked by a large parade that has been marching down Fifth Avenue since 1915. The parade is made up of floats, marching bands and other events.
The symbolic date of Columbus Day
Columbus Day is held on the second Monday in October. In 2018, the date was 8 October. This date was chosen to coincide approximately with the day Columbus set foot in America.
Columbus Day highlights in New York
The solemn mass
A special mass, the Columbus Day Mass, is celebrated at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral at 9.30am to start the day.
The Columbus Day Parade
Held every year on Fifth Avenue, this parade brings together over 35,000 participants, many of them Italian. The parade, which starts at 11.30am at theintersection of 44th Street and Fifth Avenue, winds its way up to 72nd Avenue, finishing at around 3pm. Highlights include Italian dances, the appearance of Ferraris and Vespas, and live bands. The best place to watch the parade is between 67th and 69th streets near the “red carpets”.
Shopping and sightseeing on Fifth Avenue
After the parade, the 4km-long Fifth Avenue is a must. Luxury boutiques such as Prada, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany’s rub shoulders with iconic shops such as Apple and Niketown. What’s more, special offers are often available on Columbus Day. But Fifth Avenue isn’t just famous for its shops. It’s also home to landmarks such as Rockefeller Center and the Guggenheim Museum.
Columbus Day is a day rich in celebration and history, when the legacy of Christopher Columbus is remembered through a variety of activities, especially in New York. Celebrate Columbus Day in New York: discover the history, origins and must-do activities to make the most of the day
