- What Is Labor Day?
Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States that celebrates and recognizes the achievements of American workers. It is observed on the first Monday in September. The roots of Labor Day date back to the decades following the Civil War when workers took part in strikes and rallies to demand shorter workdays and better working conditions.
- When Did Labor Day Become a Federal Holiday?
Labor Day was declared a national holiday in 1894. By the time it became a federal holiday, Labor Day was already an official holiday in 24 states.
- How Is Labor Day Observed Today?
Though parades and other festivities still take place to honor workers, today, the long Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of the summer for many. In recent years, due to the pandemic, parades and other events have been canceled, although they started to resume again in 2022 in many cities across the country.
- The Bottom Line
Today, the long Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer for many. But its roots date back to the late 19th Century and the Haymarket Riot, and Labor Day parades and festivities honoring workers have remained a part of the federal holiday.
