From backyard barbecues to long weekend getaways and taking advantage of end-of-summer sales, Americans across the country observe Labor Day, a federal holiday dedicated to honoring the American workforce, in a variety of ways. This year marks the 130th anniversary of the holiday, which falls on the first Monday of September. While the holiday’s origins are rooted in activism by unions advocating for workers’ rights, it has evolved into a cherished occasion for many Americans, symbolizing the unofficial end of summer.
Labor Day originated in the late 19th century as activists campaigned to establish a day to recognize and appreciate workers’ contributions. The first Labor Day celebration in the United States occurred on September 5, 1882, in New York City, with a parade organized by the Central Labor Union and the Knights of Labor, where 10,000 workers participated. President Grover Cleveland made Labor Day a federal holiday in 1894, the same year that the Pullman Palace Car Company strike occurred, leading to federal troops being sent to suppress the protest.
Over the Labor Day weekend, travelers flock to airports and highways for one last summer getaway, while families and friends gather for cookouts and barbecues. Barbecuing has been an integral part of Labor Day celebrations since its inception, offering a communal experience of sharing meals and enjoying each other’s company. In Chicago, the roots of Labor Day are celebrated with a parade and festival in the Pullman neighborhood.
The labor movement in the U.S. has evolved over the decades, with significant milestones such as the National Labor Relations Act of 1935 granting private sector employees the right to unionize. However, challenges remain, as not all states allow collective bargaining for public workers. In recent years, there has been a resurgence in labor organizing and activism, driven by younger generations entering the workforce amidst economic challenges.
A longstanding fashion “rule” associated with Labor Day is the prohibition of wearing white after the holiday. This tradition likely originated in the late 1800s during the Gilded Age, coinciding with the establishment of Labor Day. Fashion experts suggest that the rule has become more relaxed in modern times, with fewer people adhering to it. With back-to-school shopping and the transition to a more formal dress code after summer, Labor Day serves as a transition point from casual summer attire to more business-oriented outfits.
