Celebrating Columbus Day

Columbus Day, which commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492, is celebrated in various ways across the United States and other countries. Columbus Day is a national holiday celebrated on the second Sunday of October. The holiday is celebrated with an annual parade in New York City. In addition to being celebrated in the United States, Puerto Rico, Italy and Spain also celebrate Columbus Day. The purpose of the day is to celebrate Christopher Columbus discovering America in 1492.

Christopher Columbus is responsible for the introduction of European culture into the Americas. When he discovered the Americas in 1492, he spread the word of a new land and thus began the migration of Europeans into the Americas. Italian-Americans, especially, are proud that an Italian discovered the new land. Columbus’ discovery also begins the first recorded history of America.

When it comes to food, many people choose to prepare dishes that reflect the fusion of cultures that occurred after Columbus's voyages. 

Ingredients and dishes that can be associated with Columbus Day

Corn (maize)

Native to the Americas, corn was a staple for indigenous peoples and became a significant food source for European settlers.

Corn dishes: Cornbread, corn chowder, roasted corn.

Tomatoes

Originally from the Americas, tomatoes were brought back to Europe by explorers and became a staple in many European cuisines, especially Italian.

Tomato dishes: Tomato sauce, salsa, gazpacho.

Potatoes

Native to South America, potatoes were introduced to Europe and became a staple food in many countries.

Potato dishes: Mashed potatoes, potato soup, roasted potatoes.

Beans

Various beans, like kidney and pinto, were cultivated in the Americas and introduced to Europe.

Dishes with beans: Bean soup, chili, refried beans.

Chilies

Native to the Americas, chilies were introduced to Europe and Asia and became integral to many cuisines.

Chili dishes: Chili con carne, spicy salsa, hot sauce.

Chocolate (cacao)

Native to Central and South America, cacao beans were used by indigenous peoples to make chocolate drinks. They were later introduced to Europe.

Dishes with chocolate: Hot chocolate, chocolate desserts, mole sauce.

Squash and pumpkins

These were cultivated in the Americas and became popular in European dishes after their introduction.

Dishes with squash and pumkin: Pumpkin pie, roasted squash, squash soup.

Turkey

Native to North America, turkeys were domesticated by indigenous peoples and later became popular in European cuisine.

Dishes with turkey: Roasted turkey, turkey sandwiches, turkey stew.

Pineapple

Native to South America, pineapples were introduced to Europe and became a symbol of hospitality.

Dishes with pineapple: Pineapple upside-down cake, grilled pineapple, pineapple salsa.

Vanilla

Derived from orchids native to Mexico, vanilla was introduced to Europe and became a popular flavoring.

Dishes with vanilla: Vanilla ice cream, vanilla cake, vanilla custard.

Spices

While not from the Americas, spices like black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg were sought after by European explorers, and their pursuit of trade routes was a significant factor in the age of exploration.

Spiced dishes: Spiced cakes, mulled wine, spiced meats.

When celebrating Columbus Day, you can incorporate these ingredients into your meals to reflect the culinary exchange that took place after Columbus's voyages. Whether you're making traditional dishes or putting a modern twist on them, these ingredients can help you create a festive and delicious Columbus Day feast.

Recipes

Choose recipes for a Columbus Day fusion feast.

Chili and tomato gazpacho with corn croutons (starter) is a dish that combines the freshness of tomatoes with the kick of chilies and the comforting taste of cornbread, paying tribute to the Native American staple.

Bean stuffed poblano peppers (starter)

Polenta with spicy tomato ragout (main course) is a dish that incorporates flavors from around the world and symbolizes Columbus´s global impact.

Spicy turkey roulade with chili-tomato jam (main course)

Chili butter grilled vegetables (side dish)

Corn and bean salad with tomato vinaigrette (side dish) is a refreshing and vibrant dish that's perfect for gatherings or as a side to grilled meats and fish. 

Chocolate-vanilla molten lava cake (dessert)

Spiced chocolate cooler (drink)

The celebration

An annual parade is held in New York City the second Monday in October. The parade is broadcast on WNBC and also internationally in Italy. The parade depicts many Italian-Americans in different set-ups, all of which are aimed at celebrating the Italian-American relationship. Another annual parade is held in Denver, Colorado.

Many Americans, especially Italian-Americans, celebrate Columbus Day with a barbeque. It is typically the last barbeque held in the year, depending upon the weather. Others cook a typical seamen’s dinner in honor of the meal that Christopher Columbus must have eaten on the sail to the Americas. The meal can consist of fish, potatoes, beef, cheese and variety of other foods such as rice, dried fruits and legumes.

Columbus Day was made a national holiday in 1971. Beforehand it was recognized as an annual holiday since 1920. Not everyone, however, is quick to celebrate Columbus Day, stating that Columbus did not actually discover the Americas, as there were inhabitants on the land already. The parade in Denver, Colorado has been known to draw protestors each year. Thererfore, some states celebrate the holiday by a different name.

Whichever version of the holiday you celebrate, you can be sure that there is an attraction nearby your house.