Happy Labor Day! Hope everyone had a fun and relaxing Labor Day weekend.

Here are some fun facts about Labor Day:

1. Origins: Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday of September in the United States and Canada. It honors the contributions of workers and the labor movement. The holiday is a tribute to the social and economic achievements of American and Canadian workers.
2. First Celebrated: The first Labor Day was celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City. It was organized by the Central Labor Union and was intended to be a day of festivities and a parade to showcase the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations.
3. Official Recognition: Oregon was the first U.S. state to officially recognize Labor Day as a public holiday in 1887. It became a federal holiday in 1894, following widespread labor strikes and protests, including the infamous Pullman Strike.
4. End of Summer: Labor Day often marks the unofficial end of summer in the United States. Many schools and colleges begin their academic years right after the holiday, and it’s also considered the last opportunity for people to take summer vacations before the fall season begins.
5. Fashion Rules: Traditionally, Labor Day was seen as the endpoint for wearing white clothing. Many fashion enthusiasts adhered to the rule that white clothing should not be worn after Labor Day. However, this rule has become less strict in recent years.
6. Parades and Picnics: Parades, picnics, barbecues, and other outdoor activities are common ways to celebrate Labor Day. It’s a day for family gatherings and enjoying the last warm days of summer.
7. Unofficial End of Hot Dog Season: In the U.S., Labor Day also marks the unofficial end of the hot dog season. The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council reports that Americans typically consume about 7 billion hot dogs between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
8. No Work Day: True to its name, Labor Day is a public holiday, so most businesses, schools, and government offices are closed on this day. It’s a day off for the majority of workers.
9. International Variations: While Labor Day is primarily celebrated on the first Monday in September in the U.S. and Canada, other countries have their own variations. International Workers’ Day, also known as Labour Day, is celebrated on May 1st in many countries around the world.
10. Mattress Sales: Interestingly, Labor Day is known for its mattress sales. Many mattress stores offer significant discounts during the holiday weekend, making it a popular time for people to buy new mattresses.

These fun facts offer a glimpse into the history and traditions surrounding Labor Day in the United States.