What Is Labor Day?

Originally, labor day was celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City to recognize trade and labor workers and celebrate their contributions to society.

Ten years later, it was recognized as a national holiday in the US to commemorate the efforts of labor organizations and workers.

Labor Day is held on the first Monday of September every year. Primarily an American holiday, many offices, government buildings, schools, and colleges have a day off for Labor Day.

How Is Labor Day Celebrated Around the World?

Mostly celebrated in the US, Labor Day is known as an "end of summer celebration". In the countdown to Labor Day, many businesses, schools, and government offices organize parades, picnics, and parties.

Additionally, many companies and official buildings close for the day, giving staff a day off to celebrate the national holiday. Some companies arrange office parties or give small gifts to recognize the efforts of their workforce on Labor Day. It's also common for some people to give gifts or cards on Labor Day in the US.

Other countries have similar celebrations to Labor Day, although these are typically held in May.

For example, in the UK, International Worker's Day or May Day is held on May 1. It's not typical to celebrate with any special events. But the day is a national holiday and many people have a day off to celebrate.

May Day is also an important holiday in China, Vietnam, Cuba, Laos, North Korea, and the former Soviet Union countries. It is often celebrated with parades, marches, or barbeques.

Many other countries around the world celebrate Labor Day on a different date.

For example, Australia has a public holiday on the first Monday of October to mark Labor Day. In the Bahamas, there is a national holiday on the first Friday of June to recognize workers and give them a long weekend off work.

Do You Say Happy Labor Day?

Because it's a national holiday, many Americans say "Happy Labor Day" to their colleagues, friends, and family on Labor Day.

In the countdown to Labor Day, many people also organize a party for working friends, buy cards to recognize their hard work, or get a gift they can enjoy on their day off.

Use the Labor Day countdown clock to learn how long you have to plan your event.

How Many Days Until Labor Day?

There are days until Labor Day.