Wonder why we celebrate Labor Day?

We are all used to a long Labor Day weekend, but do you know when Labor Day was started? 

Labor Day is observed the first Monday in September and annually celebrates the social and economic achievements of American workers.  Rooted in the late nineteenth century, labor activists pushed for a federal holiday to recognize contributions workers have made to American’s strength, prosperity, and well- being.

President Grover Cleveland signed a law on June 28, 1894, to make Labor Day a national holiday.

Many Americans celebrate Labor Day with parades, picnics and parties – festivities very similar to those outlined by the first proposal for a holiday, which suggested that the day should be observed with – a street parade to exhibit “the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations” of the community, followed by a festival for the recreation and amusement of the workers and their families according to the US Department of Labor.

Enjoy your weekend and celebrate all that came before us to build this great nation.

Source:  US Department of Labor Day