Labor Day 2024: When is it and why do we celebrate with a three-day weekend?

As the end of August nears, so does the coveted three-day weekend vacation of Labor Day.

Labor Day marks the end of summer and for many people, this means a short weekend getaway . Despite this holiday becoming a vacation day, there is a deep history for this almost 150-year-old celebration.

Here's what to know about the end-of-summer celebration of workers' rights and liberties.

When is Labor Day?

Labor Day occurs on Monday, Sept. 2, making Aug. 31 the start of the three-day weekend. The holiday typically falls on the first Monday in September.

What is Labor Day?

During the Industrial Revolution, workers organized strikes, demonstrations, and rallies to push for improved working conditions. Labor Day commemorates the efforts of those who fought for workers' rights during the labor movement of the late 19th century. Thanks to their struggles, we now enjoy benefits such as the 40-hour workweek, paid time off, sick leave, and safer workplaces.

This holiday celebrates American workers, unions, and labor leaders.

When did Labor Day become a holiday?

Labor Day became a U.S. federal holiday in 1894 when President Grover Cleveland signed a congressional act. Even before it was recognized as a federal holiday, 30 states officially celebrated it.

When was the first Labor Day celebrated?

The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 1882, in New York City, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

What's closed on Labor Day?

Most public and private schools, post offices and banks will be closed. Most grocery stores and pharmacies will remain open though they may have modified hours. Costco's U.S. warehouses will remain closed on Labor Day.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Labor Day 2024: When is it and why do we celebrate with a three-day weekend?