Happy Labor Day! History, Facts and Celebration

Every year on the first Monday in September, people all over the United States set out to have a happy Labor Day, joining friends and families for festive parades, picnics, and parties that take place throughout the long weekend. One of the most celebrated holidays in the US, Labor Day seeks to honor the accomplishments of American workers, but historically the day means much more than just that. In preparation for the 2023 federal holiday, which lands on September 5th this year, learn about the history of Labor Day and how to keep the spirit of this and other United States holidays alive.

Why Do We Celebrate Labor Day?

Labor Day is set aside to pay tribute to the American workers that for so long have kept the United States at the forefront of the global economy. Their hard work and dedication has been vital to the survival of countless companies even in the darkest of times. It is one of the United States holidays that truly focuses on recognizing everything that so many in the working class have given up day after day. If you are still asking yourself “why do we celebrate Labor Day,” read on to understand the history of Labor Day and why it is one of the most celebrated holidays in the US.

The History of Labor Day

Due in large part to the hard working individuals that made up the laboring class, the United States was arguably one of the fastest growing economies in the world during the late 19th century. Despite dangerous working conditions and little in lieu of worker protections, corporations pushed out high levels of output, leaning on the working men, women, and children to do the impossible. The daily struggle of these individuals led to much discontent and a number of worker strikes that crippled certain industries. Fighting against harsh and unsanitary working conditions, excessively long days, and no time off, American workers pushed for change. While it came slowly, they were able to make drastic improvements to working conditions, benefitting all those who punched the clock day after day.

The First Official Happy Labor Day

On September 5, 1882, over 10,000 workers showed up to march in a parade from the New York City Hall to Union Square. Drawing a considerable amount of attention in what would be the first parade in support of American workers in US history, these individuals inspired others to follow suit. The state of Oregon was the first to give Labor Day its official status in 1887, with New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Colorado joining soon thereafter. Within just seven years, an additional 23 states set aside a day in recognition of the holiday, but it wasn’t until 1894 that it was made one of the official United States holidays by President Grover Cleveland. Seeking a way to pacify the masses after deadly violence broke out during a Pullman Palace Car Company employee strike, President Cleveland declared the first Monday of September a national holiday and guaranteed everyone the right to a day off.

The Best of 2023 Federal Holidays

One of the reasons why Labor Day is one of the most celebrated holidays in the US has a lot to do with the time of year in which it falls. The first Monday of September is thought to mark the end of Summer and the beginning of Fall. It is also the last opportunity many have to vacation before kids head back to school, making it a date associated with good times and loads of fun. If not heading out on a family vacation, many opt for attending parades, hosting bbqs with friends and family, and visiting the beach for one last hurrah before the colder temperatures set in. Lastly, Labor Day is a holiday that everyone can get behind. Regardless of gender, race, religion, or socio-economic status, everyone deserves the day off and the recognition that comes from hard work. 

This September 5th, have a very happy Labor Day!