How Many Days Until Labor Day?
Labor Day 2025 will be on Monday, September 1, 2025.
About Labor Day
Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on the first Monday in September to honor and recognize the American labor movement and the contributions and achievements of laborers to the development and achievements of the United States. It's traditionally seen as the symbolic end of summer and the start of the back-to-school season.
History of Labor Day
Labor Day has its origins in the late 19th century, when the labor movement was at its peak. As industrial growth intensified following the Civil War, labor unions grew more prominent and vocal. Workers faced harsh conditions, including 12-hour workdays, unsafe environments, and meager pay.
The first Labor Day parade occurred on September 5, 1882, in New York City, when 10,000 workers took unpaid time off to march from City Hall to Union Square, organized by the Central Labor Union and the Knights of Labor.
By 1894, 23 states had adopted the holiday, and on June 28, 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed legislation making Labor Day a national holiday. This was a reconciliation gesture after the government's handling of the Pullman Strike earlier that year, which had resulted in the deaths of a number of workers.
Labor Day Traditions
Final Summer Getaway
Many families take their final summer vacation over Labor Day weekend before school starts.
Barbecues & Picnics
Outdoor cooking and picnics with family and friends are popular Labor Day traditions.
Parades & Festivals
Many communities host parades and festivals to celebrate workers and their contributions.
Sales & Shopping
Labor Day has become known for retail sales and shopping opportunities.
Labor Day in Modern America
Today, Labor Day marks a time to celebrate the achievements of American workers and the labor movement's fight for fair working conditions, reasonable hours, and better pay. It's also a time to reflect on the ongoing challenges facing workers in an ever-changing economy.
Labor Day often features speeches by prominent labor leaders, politicians, and business figures highlighting economic achievements and issues. Many unions organize events to raise awareness about labor issues and celebrate their members' contributions.
For most Americans, however, Labor Day primarily represents a well-deserved day off and the unofficial end of summer, marked by barbecues, community events, sporting events, and back-to-school preparations.