Labor Day 2025 in the United States: History, parades, and what will be closed

Labor Day is a holiday that honors American workers, their struggles, and their contributions, while also marking the unofficial end of summer. This year, the holiday falls on Monday, September 1, 2025, and, as always, brings with it a mix of traditions, closures, and celebrations across the country.

The origin of Labor Day

The roots of Labor Day date back to the late 19th century, during a period of rapid industrialization and social change. Workers faced long hours, low wages, and unsafe conditions, which led to strikes, rallies, and demonstrations calling for reform. From this labor movement emerged the initiative to celebrate a day honoring American workers.

The first Labor Day was celebrated in New York City on September 5, 1882, organized by the Central Labor Union. Thousands of workers marched in a parade that showcased the strength and unity of labor and trade organizations, followed by a picnic and festivities for families.

In 1887, Oregon became the first state to officially recognize Labor Day as a holiday. In 1894, following the Pullman Strike (which occurred due to the company’s mistreatment of workers) and a period of intense labor unrest, President Grover Cleveland signed a bill establishing the first Monday in September as a federal holiday. By then, 30 states were already celebrating it.

While many countries recognize labor on May 1 (International Workers’ Day), the United States chose September to avoid associations with the Haymarket massacre of 1886 (in which workers and police officers were killed) and to offer a more neutral and unifying holiday. Over time, Labor Day has evolved into both a tribute to labor rights and a celebration of community and family, as well as marking the change of seasons.

Labor Day traditions and events

From its inception, Labor Day was conceived as both a serious and festive occasion. Early proposals included parades to demonstrate “the strength and esprit de corps of labor and trade organizations,” followed by gatherings where workers and their families could relax. That balance between reflection and leisure continues today.

Parades, concerts, and festivals are organized across the country for the holiday weekend. In New York City, the Labor Day Carnival and the annual Afro-Caribbean Day parade draw crowds. Washington, D.C., will host its traditional free Labor Day concert on the U.S. Capitol grounds, featuring the National Symphony Orchestra.

Sports fans also see Labor Day as a starting point. The college football season begins, the U.S. Open tennis tournament is held in New York, and the NASCAR Southern 500 race takes place at the Darlington circuit.

What will be closed on Labor Day

Since Labor Day is a federal holiday, many institutions and offices will be closed across the country:

• Federal, state, and local offices: closed
• Public and private schools: closed
• Banks: closed, although ATMs and online banking will still be available.
• Post offices: closed, with no regular mail delivery service
• UPS and FedEx: no standard pickup or delivery service, although some expedited options will still be available.
• Stock markets: the New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq, and bond markets will be closed.
• Costco: stores will be closed nationwide.

What will be open

Although government services will be suspended, many retail stores and supermarkets will remain open.

• Open during regular hours: Walmart, Target, Kroger, Giant Eagle, Trader Joe’s, Meijer, Acme, Marc’s, Fresh Thyme, and Buehler’s.
• Limited hours: Aldi and Sam’s Club (open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for Plus members; from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for Club members).

It is recommended to check local hours, as they may vary.

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