Labor Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Labor Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Labor Day is observed on September 4th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Labor Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as cool facts you need know about Labor Day.

📅 What day is Labor Day 2024?

In 2024, Labor Day is on Monday, September 4th. It is the 1st Monday in September; in 2024, it is Wednesday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all intriguing details and facts about September 4, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Labor Day is upon us, signaling the conclusion of summer. While many of us enjoy a day off, this holiday stirs up mixed emotions. With only 21 calendar days left in the season, it’s time to buckle down. School has started, indicating that the summer break is nearing its end. So, let’s delve into the history of Labor Day and how it evolved into a nationwide observance.

📜 Labor Day History

The origins of Labor Day are disputed, but there are two main versions. In one version, it is said that the Knights of Labor, a prominent labor group, organized a public procession in New York City in September 1882, with the support of the Central Labor Union. This successful rally led to the suggestion of making Labor Day a national holiday every year on the first Monday of September.

The other version credits Peter J. McGuire, a vice president of the American Federation of Labor, with proposing a “general holiday for the laboring classes” in September. McGuire suggested a street parade followed by a picnic to raise funds for local unions. He chose the first Monday of September because of the pleasant weather and its position between July 4th and Thanksgiving. Oregon was the first state to declare Labor Day a public holiday, and by 1894, when the federal government made it a national holiday, 29 more states had already joined.

✅ Labor Day Facts

🔖 Stores remain open
Unlike most schools and workplaces that are closed on Labor Day, retail employees and retailers are not as lucky. This is because Labor Day is a crucial day for sales and shopping, making it a busy day for these individuals and businesses.

🔖 Third most popular holiday for outdoor cookouts
After the Fourth of July and Memorial Day, Labor Day is ranked as the third most preferred holiday for barbecues and cookouts.

🔖 It’s on May 1 in other countries
Labor Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is observed on May 1 in numerous countries across the globe.

👍 Why Is Labor Day Important

According to statistics, Americans work 137 more hours per year than Japanese people, 260 more hours per year than British citizens, and 499 more hours than French citizens. Our production is also great—400% higher than it was in 1950. So we really deserved that day off.

Labor Day is commonly regarded as the unofficial end of summer. It’s our final chance to grill some steaks and wear shorts before the weather turns chilly and the leaves begin to fall.

Labor Day is a day to celebrate the perks of our professions, such as weekends off. The notion of taking days off in the United States dates back to 1791, when a group of carpenters in Philadelphia went on strike in order to seek a reduced workweek (10-hour days, to be exact). Workers did not begin demanding eight-hour workdays until 1836. Maybe nine to five isn’t so horrible after all.

🙂 How To Observe Labor Day

⚡ Watch a movie about labor unions

⚡ Read up on the history of Labor Day
Labor Day is a holiday with a significant past that has shaped the current working conditions we experience. As you gather with family and friends for a Labor Day barbecue, it’s worthwhile to discuss the American labor movement and how it has influenced our country’s modern work ethic.

⚡ Buy an American-made product
Many of us have the day off on Labor Day. What better way to unwind than to curl up on the couch and watch a documentary on the American labor movement? There are several union-themed films to pick from. Do the words “Norma Rae” strike a bell? Aside: Unions are quite important in the entertainment sector.

📅 When is Labor Day?

Explore all 🔗 September holidays, including 🔗 Federal and other 🔗 Civic holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about Labor Day. So be sure to check back soon.