Today is the 2^nd Monday of October. For most of the world, it is just another day, but for the majority of North Americans, the day is important.

Columbus Day is a U.S. holiday that commemorates the landing of Christopher Columbus in the New World on October 12, 1492. It was unofficially celebrated in a number of cities and states as early as the 18th century but did not become a federal holiday until the 1937. Originally observed every October 12, it was fixed to the second Monday in October in 1971.

In many parts of the United States, Columbus Day has evolved into a celebration of Italian-American heritage. Local groups host parades and street fairs featuring colorful costumes, music and Italian food. In cities and towns that use the day to honor indigenous peoples, activities include pow-wows, traditional dance and lessons about Native American culture.

If you are in New York, you can watch the 67^th year, Columbus Day parade.  The parade will march along Fifth Avenue from 44^th Street to 72^nd Street.  New York expects over 100 bands and floats and approximately 35,000 marchers.  Fifth Avenue will also be filled with an expected one million spectators.  The parade starts at 11:30a.m. but be sure and be there early enough to find a place to stand!

If you are Canadian, Happy Thanksgiving!! In Canada, the holiday is celebrated on the second Monday of October, however people generally get together for their Thanksgiving meal on any one of the three days of the holiday weekend.

Canadians give thanks for a successful harvest. The harvest season falls earlier in Canada compared to the United States due to the simple fact that Canada is further north. Thanksgiving Day in Canada is celebrated in much the same way as in the United States. How was the turkey and Pumpkin Pie?

How is Clay Aiken spending the holiday? I have no idea, but I hope he had some time to chat with his Canadian Family over the week-end. There is nothing better than spending time with your family.

Today? Perhaps Clay is celebrating by visiting New York…combining a holiday celebration with some important work. Whatever or wherever Clay is, we can all wish him the very best of two holidays in two countries.

Do you remember when Clay was featured on the Canadian TV show called E-Talk Daily? It was broadcast on October 10, 2005, however Clay taped it when the Jukebox Tour visited Toronto.