October 12

Holidays & Observances - History & Event Related

Discovery of America byColumbus-related observances (see alsoOctober 8):

Columbus Day (Honduras), Día de la HispanidadorFiesta Nacional de España, alsoArmed Forces Day(Spain), Día de la Raza(El Salvador,Uruguay), Día de la Resistencia Indígena, "Day of Indigenous Resistance" (Venezuela), Día de las Américas(Belize), Día de las Culturas, "Day of the Cultures" (Costa Rica), Día del Respeto a la Diversidad Cultural, "Day of respect for cultural diversity" (Argentina)

Various countries observe October 12 to commemorate Columbus’s landing in the Americas, celebrating heritage, culture, and history.
October 12 marks the anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the New World in 1492, leading to diverse national observances. Spain celebrates Fiesta Nacional de España and Armed Forces Day with parades and ceremonies. Many Latin American countries recognize Día de la Raza, Día de las Culturas, or Día de la Resistencia Indígena to honor indigenous heritage and cultural diversity. Honduras observes Columbus Day while Belize marks Día de las Américas as a symbol of Pan-American unity. The range of names and traditions reflects evolving perspectives on history, colonization, and cultural identity.
Columbus October 8 Columbus Day (Honduras) Día de la Hispanidad Fiesta Nacional de España Armed Forces Day Día de la Raza El Salvador Uruguay Día de la Resistencia Indígena Venezuela Día de las Américas Belize Día de las Culturas Costa Rica Día del Respeto a la Diversidad Cultural Argentina

Discovery Day(The Bahamas)

Discovery Day in The Bahamas commemorates Christopher Columbus's first landing in the islands in 1492 with cultural events and celebrations.
Originally observed on October 12, Discovery Day honors Columbus's arrival on an island believed to be San Salvador. Although the date has shifted to the first Monday of October, the historical significance remains tied to his initial voyage. Bahamian communities host parades, traditional music performances, and educational programs about the nation's early encounters with Europeans. Festivals often include storytelling, art exhibits, and nautical reenactments. The holiday offers a moment to reflect on the Bahamas' rich heritage and its role in global exploration.
Discovery Day The Bahamas

Columbus Day (Honduras)

National holiday in Honduras commemorating Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas.
Known locally as Día de la Raza, Columbus Day in Honduras honors the landing of Christopher Columbus on October 12, 1492. It is marked by official ceremonies, parades, cultural events and discussions of indigenous heritage. Schools and government offices are closed as communities celebrate with folkloric dances and exhibitions. The holiday also prompts reflection on the complex legacy of colonization in Latin America. Wreath-laying ceremonies, educational programs and art displays highlight both historical remembrance and contemporary diversity.
Columbus Day (Honduras)