WASHINGTON – The origins of Labor Day date back to the late 19th century, when activists first sought to establish a day that would pay tribute to workers.
The very first U.S. Labor Day celebration took place in New York City on September 5, 1882. Around 10,000 workers participated in a parade organized by the Central Labor Union and the Knights of Labor, showcasing their solidarity and the importance of labor rights.
In the years that followed, several cities and states began to recognize Labor Day. However, it wasn’t until 1894 that President Grover Cleveland signed a congressional act establishing the first Monday of September as a national legal holiday. This marked a significant victory for workers across the nation.
Today, many workers enjoy a day off, although most large retail businesses remain open. In fact, many take this opportunity to run promotional sales, attracting customers with special deals.
Here’s a breakdown of what is typically open and closed on Labor Day:
Government Buildings
Most government offices, post offices, courts, and schools are closed on Labor Day, allowing employees a well-deserved break.
Banks and Stock Market
U.S. stock markets and banks also observe the holiday and are closed. This means no trading or banking activities occur on this day.
Delivery Services
Standard FedEx and UPS pickup and delivery services will not be available on Labor Day. However, some critical services may still operate at select locations.
Retailers
While warehouse membership club Costco will be closed, most major national retailers and grocery stores will be open. Many will offer enticing sales to attract shoppers. It’s a good idea to check local store hours, as they can vary.
Travel Trends
Even with many schools back in session and rising travel costs due to higher fuel prices linked to global events, millions of Americans still plan to travel for the long weekend. According to AAA, flight prices to popular domestic destinations are nearly 20% higher than last year, while hotel costs have also seen a rise. Currently, the average price for a gallon of regular gas is just under $4.10, which is up 90 cents compared to the same time last year.
Interestingly, for those considering a cruise, AAA reports that prices for cruises departing from U.S. ports are about 4% cheaper than last year, making it an appealing option for some travelers.
Traveling Tips
While AAA doesn’t provide a comprehensive travel forecast for Labor Day like it does for Memorial Day and July Fourth, they do offer valuable advice for travelers. They recommend keeping an eye on the weather and checking your vehicle’s tires, battery, and fluid levels before hitting the road. It’s also wise to pack an emergency kit that includes water, snacks, a flashlight, and jumper cables, ensuring a safe trip for everyone involved.
