Why is Labor Day celebrated?
The holiday grew out of the labor movement in the late nineteenth century. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, labor activists pushed for a national day recognizing workers' contributions to the country's strength, prosperity and well-being.
When did Labor Day become a federal holiday?
The first Labor Day celebration was held in New York City on September 5, 1882. States began adopting the holiday in the following years, and Congress made the first Monday in September a legal holiday in 1894.
Why is it trending now?
“labor day” is one of the leading Google Trends searches in the United States on September 7, 2026, which is Labor Day this year. Related searches include questions about what Labor Day is and which businesses are open.
Sources
U.S. Department of Labor — History of Labor Day
U.S. Office of Personnel Management — Federal holidays