Five Things: Fantasma Fest, IKEA and More...

It’s Columbus Day: Government shutdown or not, expect some federal offices to be closed today, Oct. 14 in honor of Columbus Day. This national holiday is celebrated each year in honor of Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the New World, according to History.com. Do you have the day off? How are you spending it?

Sunshine, Blue Skies, No School: We’ve all heard of closing schools for hurricanes and bad weather, but sunshine? As it turns out, a great weather day closing was a pre-retirement dream for one principal in Georgia. Principal Len McWilliams made that wish come true when he decided to cancel classes at Calvary Christian School in Columbus, Ga., last week because the weather was just too nice, according to the Atlanta Business Chronicle. What do you think? Is it time for a Florida school to close for the same reason?

Free Fun for Kids at IKEA: Looking for free fun on days the kids are out of class? Consider heading to IKEA Tampa for its Kids Academy. The free sessions include activities, a meal and even a T-shirt. The next day is Oct. 21. Visit IKEA Tampa online for more details.

Check out Fantastma Fest: Looking for some Halloween-themed fun that continues throughout the month? Make a stop in Ybor City before October comes to a close to check out Fantastmas Fest. The festival staged by the district’s merchants features events for adults and kids alike. There’s a bartenders’ competition, a feast, ghost stories, pumpkin patch and more. Check out the event’s website for all the gory details.

Enjoy Some Sunshine: While Florida weather is always subject to change, the forecast calls for a mostly sunny Columbus Day with a high in the upper 80s. Take advantage while you can. Rain starts to creep back into the picture as the week moves forward.