Columbus Day is a national holiday celebrated in the United States on the second Monday of October. The holiday commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492.
Christopher Columbus was an Italian explorer who embarked on a voyage sponsored by the Spanish crown in an attempt to find a westward route to Asia. Instead, his journey led him to the islands of the Caribbean, marking the beginning of European exploration and colonization of the Americas.
Columbus Day has been celebrated in various forms since the late 19th century, and it became a federal holiday in 1934. The holiday is often associated with the idea of honoring Columbus as a symbol of exploration and discovery. However, in recent years, there has been a growing controversy surrounding Columbus and his legacy.
Critics argue that Columbus and the European colonization that followed his arrival had devastating consequences for the indigenous peoples of the Americas, including slavery, forced labor, disease, and displacement. As a result, there have been calls to abolish or rename Columbus Day and instead celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day or Native American Day, to recognize and honor the contributions and resilience of Native American cultures.
While some cities and states have adopted alternative celebrations, Columbus Day remains a federal holiday in the United States. Observance of the holiday varies, with some government offices, schools, and businesses closing, while others remain open. Some communities organize parades and events to mark the occasion, while others use the day to promote awareness of indigenous history and issues.
However, since Columbus Day falls in October, many people may choose to celebrate with seasonal foods that are popular during this time of the year. Some common food choices for fall in the US may include:
1. Pumpkin dishes: Pumpkin pie, pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin bread, or roasted pumpkin seeds are popular choices during the fall season.
2. Apple-based treats: Apple pie, apple crisp, caramel apples, or apple cider are beloved fall favorites.
3. Comfort foods: As the weather turns cooler, many people enjoy warm and comforting dishes like stews, soups, roasted meats, and root vegetables.
4. Festive beverages: Hot apple cider, spiced chai tea, mulled wine, or hot chocolate are often enjoyed during the fall season.
5. Seasonal vegetables: Squash, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, and other hearty fall vegetables can feature prominently in autumn meals.
Ultimately, the choice of food on Columbus Day may vary depending on personal preferences and regional traditions, as there are no set culinary practices specifically associated with the holiday.
