Labor Day is observed on the first Monday of September each year to recognize the social and economic achievements of American workers.
In 2026, Labor Day falls on Monday, Sept. 7. The federal holiday has roots in the labor movement of the late 19th century, and has become a long weekend marked by parades, celebrations and, for many Americans, a day off from work.
When is Labor Day weekend?
Labor Day is observed on the first Monday in September. This year, Labor Day is on Monday, Sept. 7.
Why is Labor Day so late this year?
In 2026, Sept. 1 falls on a Tuesday, so the first Monday isn't until Sept. 7, which is the latest possible date for Labor Day.
Why do we celebrate Labor Day?
Labor Day celebrates the social and economic achievements of American workers, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated
with a parade on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City. Nearly 25,000 union members and their families lined the streets of lower Manhattan near city hall.
Labor Day was officially signed into law on June 28, 1894, by President Grover Cleveland, making the first Monday in September of each year a national holiday.
Today, more than a century later, the tradition of parades and parties lives on.
Is school closed Labor Day?
Yes, schools are typically closed on national holidays.
Natassia Paloma may be reached at npaloma@gannett.com, @NatassiaPaloma on X, natassia_paloma on Instagram, and Natassia Paloma on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: When is Labor Day? Why is Labor Day so late this year? What to know
