Labor Day is a federal holiday observed every year on the first Monday of September, with roots in the labor movement in the United States. This day is considered a state holiday, so state government offices remain closed. Additionally, some schools and businesses also choose not to operate on this date. This 2025 will not be the exception.
For many, it represents the last opportunity to take a break before the start of the fall school term. Many people take advantage of the long weekend to make one final summer trip. If you’re thinking of planning a getaway or activity, here’s when Labor Day will be in 2025.
What day is Labor Day 2025?
This year, Labor Day will be celebrated on Monday, September 1.
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History of Labor Day
The holiday originated in the late 19th century when labor activists advocated for the creation of a federal holiday to recognize the significant contributions of workers to the development, prosperity, and well-being of the United States.
With the rise of the Industrial Revolution, there was an increased demand for labor and the strengthening of labor unions. By the 1850s, movements for an eight-hour workday gained momentum, aiming to reduce work hours from ten to eight. At their first convention in 1886, the American Federation of Labor organized a general strike in Chicago on May 1 to demand shorter working hours, an event that culminated in the famous Haymarket affair.
Who founded Labor Day?
To date, there is no consensus on who the true founder of this day is, although records point to two possible candidates.
On one hand, it is said that in 1882, Peter J. McGuire, then General Secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, proposed establishing a general holiday for the working class. His intention was to honor those who, through hard work and dedication, have shaped the greatness we admire today.
On the other hand, some attribute the creation of the holiday to machinist Matthew Maguire, rather than to Peter McGuire.
When was the first Labor Day?
The first celebration of Labor Day took place on September 5, 1882, in New York, with a parade organized to commemorate the occasion. Its origin lies in the efforts of the Central Labor Union and other labor organizations to establish a holiday dedicated to workers.
In 1887, Oregon became the first state to officially recognize Labor Day as a legal holiday. Later that same year, states like Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York also passed laws establishing the holiday. Finally, in 1894, President Grover Cleveland declared Labor Day a federal holiday.
How is Labor Day celebrated in the United States?
Across the country, this day is commemorated with parades, speeches, and fireworks displays. Additionally, many Americans fill community pools and beaches or enjoy various outdoor activities.
Barbecues are another prominent tradition during Labor Day. From its early days, these gatherings have been a central part of the celebration, as outdoor gatherings were a deeply rooted custom in the United States. With the rise of labor movements in the late 19th century, it became natural to celebrate in large groups. By the 20th century, barbecues to mark the day transformed into more intimate gatherings of friends and family in backyards.
Federal Holiday Calendar 2025
According to the Office of Personnel Management, there are 12 official holidays in the United States. Here’s the list and when they fall this year:
- Wednesday, Jan. 1: New Year’s Day
- Monday, Jan. 20: Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
- Monday, Jan. 20: Inauguration Day
- Monday, Feb. 17: Washington’s Birthday
- Monday, May 26: Memorial Day
- Thursday, June 19: Juneteenth
- Friday, July 4: Independence Day
- Monday, Sept. 1: Labor Day
- Monday, Oct. 13: Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day
- Tuesday, Nov. 11: Veterans Day
- Thursday, Nov. 27: Thanksgiving Day
- Thursday, Dec. 25: Christmas Day
