Everybody loves Labor Day, for some it’s the time to celebrate the end of summer while for many it’s a welcome day off from work. But have you ever wondered, “Why do we celebrate Labor Day,” or about the real story behind Labor Day celebration? Well, if you have, but didn’t know where to find those answers, then you have hit the right spot, for this post is all about the history of Labor day and the reasons behind celebrating Labor day.

According to Samuel Gompers, Labor Day differs from all other holidays celebrated in our country in every essential aspect. Unlike other holidays, Labor Day is not a celebration of any particular event or person, nor is it a religious event; Labor Day is the day to commemorate the efforts and contributions of all the working class men and women of our nation. The first Labor Day was celebrated on 5th September 1882 (which was a Tuesday), in the New York City. Who actually founded the idea of Labor Day holiday, is a slightly debated topic. While some historians credit this feat to Peter McGuire (General Secretary of The Brotherhood of Carpenters&Joiners and cofounder of American Federation of Labor); others believe Matthew Maguire, a mechanist, proposed the idea in 1882 while serving as the secretary of Local 344 of International Association of Mechanists in Paterson, N.J. Well, whoever might have proposed the idea, it was finally the Central Labor Union that finally accepted the proposal and set up a committee to plan a celebration and demonstration on 5th September 1882. Later the labor unions chose first Monday of September to celebrate Labor Day because it occurred halfway between Independence Day and Thanksgiving Day. 

Though, many states recognized Labor Day as a state holiday, it was President Grover Cleveland who designated first Monday of September as a nationwide holiday for celebrating Labor Day. In its early days, Labor Day was celebrated with large public demonstrations, parades, and rallies with workers banding together on streets. However, today with modernization of industries and change in the work structure, the true essence of Labor Day has got diluted. Today, Labor Day is the day to celebrate the last holiday before the end of summer and advent of fall. Many families use this long weekend as the last chance to hit the beach, have a picnic, throw a BBQ party, attend fairs and carnivals, and celebrate the spirit of summer one last time. 

Thus, in present day’s context Labor Day is the day to party and have fun. For some great Labor Day party ideas, recipes, and menus do check the link provided. 

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