A day and a weekend of both celebrations and protests are expected in Denver, News 4 reports.

They all revolve around Christopher Columbus and the question: Should he be celebrated or reviled?

Italian-Americans will be marching in a parade Saturday to honor the explorer and Native American groups were marching Friday afternoon to protest any and all Columbus Day gatherings. Friday's march was called Four Directions, All Nations March. Saturday's parade was set to take place at 2 p.m. at 27th and Blake.

There is a history of problems between these two groups, News 4 reports.

The Italian-Americans sponsoring Saturday's parade say Christopher Columbus is an explorer who made valuable contributions to America's history.

The Native Americans say he was a racist who helped to destroy Native American lands and culture.

Denver police are hoping this year their events will be more peaceful because they are separated by time and distance.