The first Labor Day in the United States was celebrated on September 5, 1882 in New York City, shortly after the massive Pullman Strike. President Grover Cleveland put reconciliation with Labor as a top political priority after the deaths of a number of workers at the hands of the U.S. military and U.S. Marshals. Fearing further conflict, legislation making Labor Day a national holiday was rushed through Congress unanimously and signed into law a mere six days after the end of the strike. The holiday was proposed as a celebration of labor. The original plan called for 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. This became the pattern for Labor Day celebrations.
Traditionally, Labor Day is celebrated by most Americans as the symbolic end of the summer. The holiday is often regarded as a day of rest and parades. Speeches or political demonstrations are lowkey, although events held by labor organizations often feature political themes and appearances by candidates for office, especially in election years. Forms of celebration include picnics, barbecues, fireworks displays, water sports, and public art events. Families with school-age children take it as the last chance to travel before the end of summer recess. Similarly, some teenagers and young adults view it as the last weekend for parties before returning to school, although school starting times now vary.
Some Annual Celebrations around the US
Washington D.C.
An annual free concert by the National Symphony Orchestra is performed on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building.
Detroit, Michigan
The "Motor City", where the automobile unions were born, has a major Labor Day Parade that's one of the biggest in Michigan. The free three-day Detroit Jazz Fest is scheduled for Labor Day Weekend, too.
Rutland, Vermont
One of the United Sates oldest State Fairs runs September 3-12th
Orland, Florida
Joyner Family Reunion-this big bash at Walt Disney World happens on Labor Day Weekend, with special entertainment plus theme park fun.
Los Angeles, California
Street Fairs, Long Beach Greek Festival, "Fiesta Hermosa" arts and crafts festival with kiddie carnival, and more.
Brooklyn, New York
The Brooklyn Labor Day parade on Monday, September 6, 2010, also know as the West Indian American Day Parade & Carnival. This year celebrates its 42nd anniversary as it continues to enjoy the distinction of being New York City's biggest cultural festivals by far.
Aspen Colorado
Jazz Aspen Snowmass is a Labor Day Jazz Festival
Cleveland Ohio
Cleavland national Air Show featuring the US Navy Blue Angels
Knoxville, Tennessee
Boomsday is a free fireworks display with an estimated 350,000 attendees
Atlanta, Georgia
Art in the Park or Dragon*Con are two big events that will get a lot of visitors this holiday weekend.
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