September 3, 2012 (Monday)
Labor Day is a national holiday intended to honor the contributions of workers. It started out as a state holiday in Oregon, quickly followed by other states and made a federal holiday by Congress and President Grover Cleveland in 1894. The Federal Government was anxious to conciliate workers after federal intervention in a wildcat railroad strike that resulted in 30 deaths nationwide. It is celebrated on the first Monday of September every year. The tradition is now 118 years old.
The average person in our country thinks of Labor Day as the end of the summer season which began on Memorial Day. Of course, both days have significance of their own, but they mark the period that used to be generally thought of as identified with schools not having classes and weather conducive to travel and outdoor activities. School schedules vary throughout the country now, but Memorial Day to Labor Day still identifies summer for all practical purposes.
How do people celebrate Labor Day? Some towns may have parades, complete with floats and marching bands. Some people will go to a park with family and friends for fresh air and a picnic. Many people may get together with friends and family for barbecues in their backyards, in parks or at beaches. Some people choose to hit the beach on Labor Day. Hosts of people will go shopping to take advantage of the Labor Day sales.
Whatever you do today, enjoy yourself.