Understanding Labor Day
Jul. 15, 2024
Updated Aug. 19, 2025 at 7:49 a.m. CDT
Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is celebrated as a time to relax and enjoy a long weekend with family and friends, but it is essential to remember the roots of this federal holiday. Labor Day has been celebrated for more than 140 years, a late-summer reminder of the importance of workers’ rights, the sacrifices made by workers historically, and ongoing labor issues.
Introduction to Labor Day
The holiday is a time for people to come together and appreciate the hard work and dedication of workers in the United States. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the history of the labor movement and the progress that has been made in protecting workers’ rights.
Labor Day is usually celebrated with parades, barbecues, and other events that bring people together. Many cities and towns across the country host their own Labor Day celebrations, which often feature live music, food, and activities for all ages.
When is Labor Day 2025?
Breaking News
Labor Day is Sept. 1. This holiday — usually celebrated the first Monday in September — marks the unofficial end of summer. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the first Labor Day was celebrated Sept. 5, 1882, in New York City. This celebration established and recognized the American Labor Movement and the contributions of laborers to the development and achievements of the country.
Why was Labor Day Started?
The labor movement was created to protect the interests of workers in the United States. People were spending too many hours on the job, which led them to push for and obtain better wages, more reasonable hours, and safer working conditions. On June 28, 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed a law making the first Monday in September of each year a national holiday.
The labor movement has a long and complex history, with many key events and figures contributing to its development. From the early days of industrialization to the present day, workers have fought for their rights and better working conditions. Labor Day is a celebration of these efforts and a recognition of the importance of workers’ rights.
What does North Texas do for Labor Day?
Many cities host parades featuring labor unions and labor organizations to exhibit “the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations,” according to the Department of Labor website. There isn’t a parade in Dallas, but there is free yoga at Main Street Garden, 1902 Main St., and for the past seven years, the Riverfront Jazz Festival has been held Labor Day weekend.
Westfest is usually held that weekend in West; this year is the 45th celebration of Czech culture in the area. And, as it has for the past 70-plus years, Garland will have its annual Labor Day parade. And, of course, people across the Dallas-Fort Worth area will be enjoying a barbecue with family and friends in a slew of backyards and parks.
Celebrating Labor Day
Labor Day is a time for celebration and reflection. It is an opportunity to come together with family and friends and appreciate the hard work and dedication of workers in the United States. Whether you are attending a parade, enjoying a barbecue, or simply taking a day off to relax, Labor Day is a holiday that is worth celebrating.
In addition to the many events and celebrations that take place on Labor Day, many people also use the holiday as an opportunity to give back to their communities. Volunteer work, charity events, and other community-based activities are common on Labor Day, and are a great way to make a positive impact and give back to those in need.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Labor Day is a federal holiday that is celebrated on the first Monday in September. It is a time to relax and enjoy a long weekend with family and friends, but it is also essential to remember the roots of this holiday. Labor Day has been celebrated for more than 140 years, and it is a reminder of the importance of workers’ rights, the sacrifices made by workers historically, and ongoing labor issues.
By understanding the history and significance of Labor Day, we can appreciate the hard work and dedication of workers in the United States. We can also use the holiday as an opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made in protecting workers’ rights and to think about ways that we can continue to improve working conditions and protect workers’ rights in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Labor Day:
Q: When is Labor Day 2025?
A: Labor Day is Sept. 1.
Q: Why was Labor Day started?
A: Labor Day was started to protect the interests of workers in the United States and to recognize the contributions of laborers to the development and achievements of the country.
Q: What does North Texas do for Labor Day?
A: Many cities in North Texas host parades, festivals, and other events to celebrate Labor Day. There are also many community-based activities and volunteer opportunities available on the holiday.
Q: How can I celebrate Labor Day?
A: There are many ways to celebrate Labor Day, including attending a parade or festival, hosting a barbecue or picnic, volunteering in your community, or simply taking a day off to relax and enjoy time with family and friends.
