What is Labor Day, exactly? Here's how it started, when it's celebrated and what it means to us today. For many, Labor Day is a three-day weekend that helps us celebrate the conclusion of a great summer with a party and some tasty grilled food. But what is Labor Day, really?
There’s so much more to Labor Day than the weekend getaways and the funny (but relatable) Labor Day memes we see online. In fact, as its name implies, the holiday has historical roots in the labor movement. Still wondering, What is Labor Day, anyway? Read on to learn more about what the holiday is, when it is and why we celebrate it each year.
What is Labor Day?
Labor Day is a national holiday in the US. On Labor Day, we remember the work
first Monday in September. Labor Day 2025 is on Monday, September 1.
Does Labor Day change every year?
Yes, Labor Day’s date changes every year. That’s because it falls on the first Monday in September. Labor Day will take place on the following dates in the next few years:
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What is the history of Labor Day’s founding?
The history of Labor Day starts with the Industrial Revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries. During this time, a vast array of jobs and commerce were brought to the United States. What the Industrial Revolution didn’t bring was appropriate pay, safety regulations or commonsense guidelines for the number of hours people should work each day and each week. To put things in perspective, the average American worked 12-hour days, seven days a week, at the height of the Industrial Revolution. It also wasn’t uncommon to see young children doing hard labor in harsh working conditions for minuscule pay.
People noticed these poor conditions, though. Labor unions slowly started to form and fight for American workers’ rights to fair pay, fair hours and safe working conditions. Strikes and rallies were organized, and they sometimes turned violent. During this heady time, the idea for Labor Day was formed. The holiday was designed to acknowledge the contributions American workers have made to our country.
of those in the labor movement who fought hard for workers’ rights. We also celebrate the essential role workers play in America’s growth and development— recognition that some fought tirelessly for and that these Labor Day quotes honor.
When is Labor Day?
Labor Day always takes place on the
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