Countdown to Labor Day

Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States that celebrates the social and economic achievements of American workers. Observed on the first Monday of September, Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions that working people have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of the country. For many families it also marks the unofficial end of summer, a final long weekend before the autumn routine begins.

Whether you are planning a barbecue, a road trip, or simply a day of rest, the countdown above shows exactly how much time remains until the next Labor Day. Because the holiday always lands on a Monday, it reliably creates a three-day weekend that millions of people look forward to each year.

When is Labor Day?

Labor Day always falls on the first Monday of September, so the calendar date shifts slightly from year to year while the rule stays the same. This means the holiday can occur anywhere between September 1 and September 7. Use the countdown above to track the time remaining down to the second, and try our holiday timer or date duration calculator to plan around the long weekend.

History and origins of Labor Day

Labor Day grew out of the American labor movement of the late nineteenth century. The first celebration took place in New York City on September 5, 1882, organized by labor unions seeking better working conditions, fair wages, and shorter hours. Oregon became the first state to make it an official holiday in 1887, and in 1894 Congress passed an act making the first Monday of September a national holiday. The exact founder remains debated between Peter McGuire and Matthew Maguire, but the spirit of honoring workers has endured.

How Labor Day is observed

• Parades and public gatherings organized by trade unions and communities.
• Family barbecues, picnics, and cookouts that mark the close of summer.
• Major retail sales, especially on appliances and back-to-school goods.
• Sporting events and the symbolic start of the college football season.
• A long weekend used for travel and final summer getaways.

Frequently Asked Questions

What day is Labor Day in the United States?

Labor Day is always the first Monday of September, so it falls between September 1 and September 7 each year.

Why is Labor Day celebrated?

It honors the achievements and contributions of American workers and the labor movement that fought for fair wages and safer working conditions.

Is Labor Day a federal holiday?

Yes. Labor Day is a federal holiday, so government offices, banks, and many businesses are closed.

Does Labor Day mark the end of summer?

Unofficially, yes. While summer technically ends at the autumnal equinox, many people treat Labor Day weekend as the end of the summer season.

How is Labor Day different from May Day?

Labor Day in the US is held in September, while International Workers' Day, or May Day, is observed on May 1 in many other countries.