Traditionally, Labor Day serves as the unofficial end of summer - with families closing up summer houses and U.S. beaches packing it in for the season.
This year, Labor Day falls on Monday, September 2, 2024.
But Labor Day is so much more than just barbecues, parades, and department store sales.
For more than a century, the day has honored all Americans who labor and work to support their families and communities each and everyday.
How Labor Day Began
On September 5, 1882 in New York City the first Labor Day in the U.S. was celebrated as a "workingman's holiday" when (despite the threat of mass firings) workers united in a parade 10,000 strong down Broadway proudly led by Irish-American activist Peter MacGuire.
A holiday was born.
From New York, the idea spread across the country to honor workers every year since then. Congress finally passed official legislation in 1894 making the first Monday in September of each year a legal
holiday.
However, it would take 23 more years for Congress to pass the Adamson Act establishing the 8-hour workday and 40-hour workweek we know today.
And, if there is only one reason to celebrate Labor Day, it is the fact that Americans no longer have to work the 12-hour day, 7-day work week schedule that was familiar to workers in the 19th century!
More about Labor Day around the Web:
Around the Web, check out more Labor Day fun facts, together with related recipes and party ideas, as well as local and national events in honor of the day ....
Planning a Labor Day Party - Check out step-by-step instructions on picking a theme, sending invitations, building a menu and decorating
Labor Day Kids Party Fun - Lots of good ideas for celebrating
the day including do-it-yourself invitations, decorations,
games & activities, recipes and party supply resources.
Traditionally, Labor Day serves as the unofficial end of summer - with families closing up summer houses and 