Labor Day in the United States, Celebrated on the First Monday of September Since 1894, Honors American Workers

The holiday's origins date back to the late 19th century, when activists first sought to establish a date paying tribute to workers. The first Labor Day celebration took place in New York City on September 5, 1882, when about 10,000 workers marched in a parade organized by the Central Labor Union and the Knights of Labor. A handful of cities and states began adopting laws recognizing Labor Day in the following years, but it took more than a decade before President Grover Cleveland signed a congressional law in 1894 establishing the first Monday of September as a legal holiday.

While many workers have the day off, most major consumer-oriented businesses remain open and even offer promotional sales to attract customers. Government buildings, post offices, courts, and schools are closed. Stock markets and banks in the U.S. are closed on Monday.

Standard FedEx and UPS pickup and delivery services will not be available on Labor Day, though some critical services will be offered at certain locations. Costco warehouse club stores will be closed on Labor Day, but the vast majority of major national retailers and grocery stores will be open, with many offering promotional sales. Hours may vary by location, so shoppers should check their local store.

Despite many schools having already resumed classes and travel costs rising with increased fuel prices due to the conflict in Iran, millions of Americans will hit the roads and take flights for the last big travel weekend of the summer. AAA notes that flight prices to major domestic destinations are nearly 20% higher than last year, and hotel rates have also risen. The average price in the U.S. for a gallon of regular gasoline, according to the automobile club, is just under $4.10, 90 cents more than at the same time last year.

For those traveling by sea, AAA indicates that cruises departing from U.S. ports are about 4% cheaper than last year. The automobile club does not offer a full travel forecast for Labor Day as it does for Memorial Day and July 4th. But it does provide some helpful tips for travelers.

AAA recommends travelers be mindful of the weather and inspect tires, battery, and fluid levels before a road trip. It is also a good idea to carry an emergency kit with water, snacks, a flashlight, and jumper cables.