Labor Day is an annual holiday that falls on the first Monday of September, and celebrates the historical efforts to ensure workers’ rights in the United States and to raise awareness of the injustices in the workplace still being fought in the present day. Check out our previous articles on the holiday for more information on its practices and history.
The beginning of the academic year for United States schools depends on the state and school district, so many students nationwide end their summer break at different times, some in August, others in September — some even in July! (Research indicates that typically, schools in Southern states have earlier start dates, and Northeastern states such as New York start the latest in the year.)
Traditionally, though, the school year doesn’t start until after Labor Day, with some states even legally mandating the date. This is often claimed to be a holdover from a time in the country’s history when many children worked on farms and would miss school if it were in session during an important season for growing and harvesting food. However, while city schools and rural schools did typically use different schedules, an extended summer break was not actually the result of accommodating farming families, but of avoiding a drop in attendance due to hot weather combined with a lack of air conditioning, and of standardizing the academic calendar nationwide.
New York City’s annual Labor Day parade will be held on Saturday, September 6 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, starting at 44th Street and Fifth Avenue. Check out the event website here for the full route and more information.
Often considered the unofficial end of summertime (the official end is Sunday, September 22, with the autumnal equinox), Labor Day weekend is the last three-day weekend of the year and a popular time for parties and vacations. Make any travel plans in advance, and expect traffic on highways and crowds at beaches, lakes, parks, and other popular outdoor gathering spots. Because it is a federal holiday, expect government buildings and banks to be closed and businesses to be either closed or operating on limited hours.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact us anytime at info@gravityintprog.com. Stay safe and healthy, and Happy Labor Day!
