Celebrate Columbus Day in Bradenton

Columbus Day, a nationally recognized federal holiday, is celebrated today this year. While it is an opportunity for a few to sleep in, the holiday itself is also interesting, and a great time to celebrate and shop.

Columbus Day remembers Italian explorer Christopher Columbus’ long journey across the Atlantic Ocean to the “New World." The voyage was victorious when land was first spotted on Oct. 12, 1492.

The day is also considered a celebration of Italian heritage, as well as a huge shopping day in the U.S. 

While most department stores are having sales today, check out a dining special at local restaurants that's going through Oct. 14. It's the first-ever Dine Downtown event sponsored by the Downtown Sarasota Alliance where there are 2 for $22 specials for a couple to dine out. Vist the DSA website for a list of participating bars and restaurants.

President Franklin Delano Roosevelt is responsible for making the holiday a federal one in 1937.

What is closed on Columbus Day? Most banks, government offices and the U.S. Postal Service will be closed to observe the holiday.

Tell us: What are your plans for Columbus Day? Shopping? Relaxation? Celebration?