Next Monday, September 5th, is Labor Day in the U.S.
You may only know Labor Day as that Monday in September where you don’t have to
work, or if you’re a student, it’s that day in the beginning of the school year
when you don’t have class. But what does Labor Day really mean? Why do we have
this holiday?
Labor
Day is a public holiday that honors the American Labor movement and celebrates
the contributions that workers have made to better the country. Labor Day has its origins in the labor union movement, specifically the eight-hour day movement, which advocated eight hours
for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest.
For many
countries, Labor Day is synonymous with, International Workers’ Day, which occurs
on May 1st (you might also know this as May Day). For other countries, Labor
Day is celebrated on a different date, often one with special significance for
the labor movement in that country. (hint: ask you visitor about Labor Day
celebrations in their country)
Labor Day in Canada and the United States
is also considered the unofficial end of Summer (*sad face* ) as it is celebrated on
the first Monday of September during the time summer vacations are ending and students are returning
to school.
What can you do to celebrate Labor day? When the it was first created, The form for the celebration of Labor Day was outlined in the first proposal of the holiday: “A street parade to exhibit to the public the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations, followed by a festival for the workers and their families“. Since then, A festival or parade has remained the basis for a proper Labor Day celebration, though with some changes made over time. Now, we see Labor Day filled with fire work displays, last trips to the beach, outdoor BBQs, and, of course, $ales. If you’re looking for ways to spend you Labor Day this year, consider taking part in these events around Boston:
Labor Day Fireworks over Boston Harbor-
Fire works launched from barges anchored off the North End and Seaport will illuminate the sky over Boston Harbor in celebration of Labor Day and the beginning of fall. The show begins at 9pm on Saturday, September 3rd.
Where to watch: The best place to see the display is from the lawn along Christopher Columbus Park or by Long Wharf in the North End. The fireworks can also be easily seen from the South Boston Waterfront (especially around Fan Pier/ Seaport), the downtown waterfront, and Piers Park in East Boston
Labor Day Sales-
Do some back to school shopping or revamp your fall wardrobe with Labor Day Sales throughout the city. The best places to shop? You can take advantage of reductions on already discounted prices at places like Assembly Row or Wrentham Village. If you’re looking to stay in the city to shop, check out sales at Faneuil Hall, the Prudential Center, or shops around Downtown Crossing.
For more Labor Day activity ideas click here. Enjoy the long weekend with your visitors!!
