October

October, tenth month of the Gregorian calendar, containing 31 days. October was the eighth month of the ancient Roman calendar, as evidenced by the name October (Latin octo, “eight”). When the Romans designated January 1 as the beginning of the year, October became the tenth month. Columbus Day occurs on October 12 as the date, in 1492, on which Columbus and his ships landed in the New World; it is observed as a holiday in most states and territories of the United States on a Monday near that date. Hallowe’en occurs on October 31 and is observed with masquerading, bonfires, and games.