Labor Day originated as 'a day of rest.'
If you've decided to have a relaxing and restful day on September 6, you've got the right idea.
That's what the original promoters had in mind back in 1884. The Knights of Labor held a big parade in New York City on the first Monday in September and passed a resolution to hold future parades, always on the first Monday in September.
Their plan was one that people liked. It spread and was celebrated in many areas and in many states until 10 years later. In 1894, Congress passed a law recognizing Labor Day as an official national holiday. Canada celebrates Labor Day on the same day.
Samuel Gompers, head of the American Federation of Labor, called it "the day for which the toilers in past centuries looked forward, when their rights and their wrongs would be discussed … that the workers of our day may not only lay down their tools of labor for a holiday, but upon which they may touch shoulders and feel the stronger for it."
Labor Day, end of summer
The Knights of Labor didn't know their holiday would be famous for another reason. It has become the unofficial end of summer with vacations ending, swimming pools closing and school beginning.
It's one of the most popular days of the year for picnics and swimming parties. So if you don't really want a day of rest, why not make it a day of fun?
