Why does Labor Day Exist? The History of Labor Day + Fun Things to Do!
“Labor Day in the United States is a public holiday that honors the American labor movement and the contributions that workers have made to the strength, prosperity, laws and well-being of the country. It is the Monday of the long weekend known as Labor Day Weekend and it is considered the unofficial end of summer in the United States. It is recognized as a federal holiday.”
Technically, if you’re in the workforce and you live in America, you deserve the day off! The origin of Labor Day is a bit more mysterious to us though, as most people we’ve asked have no idea where it originates from. Well, beginning in the late 19th century (late 1800s), the trade unions and labor movements were growing at a rapid pace. Different groups of these members chose different days to celebrate labor. Legally, in 1887, Oregon became the first state of the United States to make it official - having an official public holiday. Just 7 years later, in 1894, it became an official federal holiday. Can you say… thank you Oregon!?
Labor Day also marks the unofficial end of summer. The official end of summer would be the Autumn Equinox, which this year will be celebrated on September 22. It is called the unofficial end of summer because back in the 90s/2000s, many schools would start the first day of school after Labor Day weekend. Now-a-days, you’d be lucky if you started after Labor Day!
Here are some fun things you can do this Labor Day Weekend (if you don’t already have plans!):
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Plan a weekend getaway: get out in nature! Or plan a trip somewhere. Too last minute for plane tickets? Take a road trip! Not the outdoorsy type? Plan a weekend movie marathon, or a LAN party :)
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Barbecue: come on! It’s the unofficial end of summer, so why not invite some of your closest friends over, throw some meat or veggies on the grill, and enjoy company?
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Play or watch sports: this weekend should be ripe with the start of College Football and the tennis US Open! Catch them on television, and get out and play some sports with your friends in the meantime - we particularly love softball, ultimate frisbee, and volleyball.
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Shop! This weekend is going to be filled with deals, make sure you take advantage. Go to our website www.craftoak.com and use code LABORDAY for 15% off any order this weekend.
That’s it! We hope you enjoyed this brief history of Labor Day and suggestions for things to do this weekend.
~ The Craft & Oak Team