Celebrating Labor Day

The United States and Canada, celebrate Labor Day on the first Monday in September to honor the American worker and the contributions they have made to the success, strength, prosperity, and well-being of their nation. In the beginning labor unions help promote the day. The first Labor Day parade in the United States was held in New York City on September 5, 1882. 

Matthew Maguire, a machinist, is thought to have introduced the idea of celebrating Labor Day in the U.S. in 1882. At the time, he served as secretary of the Central Labor Union of New York. Oregon became the first state to make it an official public holiday in 1887. It became an official federal holiday in 1894.

Labor Day is seen by many as the end of summer, and this has culturally been accepted. Many stores have Labor Day sales to move out their remaining inventory of summer goods. Traditionally, schools waited until after the Labor Day weekend to start a new year, and some still do. Many of the fall sports also begin their season then. In addition, it's often the last vacation of the year for families. Many try to go to the beach for one final time if they can and take along a good book to enjoy. How will you celebrate? However that is, have a happy, safe Labor Day.

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