Labour Day
United States · 2026
About Labour Day
Labour Day (also spelled Labor Day) is an annual public holiday that celebrates the contributions and achievements of workers. It originated in the labour union movement of the late 19th century and is now observed in countries around the world, typically on May 1st (International Workers' Day) or on country-specific dates.
The holiday traces its roots to the eight-hour workday movement. In 1886, American and Canadian trade unions organized a general strike for an eight-hour working day. In 1889, the International Socialist Congress declared May 1st as International Workers' Day in commemoration of the Haymarket affair in Chicago.
In many countries, Labour Day on May 1st is a major political occasion with marches and rallies by trade unions. In the United States and Canada, Labour Day falls on the first Monday of September and is traditionally seen as the symbolic end of summer.
Quick Facts
- Date 2026
- September 7, 2026
- Day
- Monday
- Type
- Public
- Scope
- National
- Fixed Date
- No — date changes each year
- Local Name
- Labor Day
- Traditions
- Workers' parades · Trade union rallies · Family picnics and barbecues · Political speeches
When is Labour Day?
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 1, 2025 | Monday |
| 2026This year | September 7, 2026 | Monday |
| 2027 | September 6, 2027 | Monday |
3-Day Long Weekend
Because Labour Day falls on a Monday, it creates a 3-day long weekend from Saturday, September 5 to Monday, September 7.
How is Labour Day Celebrated?
Labour Day is observed with parades, public rallies, and speeches celebrating workers' rights and trade union achievements. In many countries, trade unions organize demonstrations advocating for workers' causes including fair wages, safe working conditions, and improved benefits.
In North America, Labour Day weekend is one of the most popular times for travel, barbecues, and outdoor recreation. Many retailers hold end-of-summer sales, and it is traditionally the last long weekend before school resumes.
Did You Know?
- •Labour Day on May 1st is a public holiday in over 80 countries worldwide.
- •The United States and Canada celebrate Labour Day on the first Monday in September rather than May 1st.
- •The eight-hour workday that Labour Day celebrates was not widely standard until the 1940s in most countries.
- •May Day (May 1st) has been associated with spring festivals and workers' rights for centuries.
- •In Australia, different states celebrate Labour Day on different dates throughout the year.