It was September 5th, 1882, in New York City, that the first observance of Labor Day was held. It marked the creation of the labor movement and still today, is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. The day honors their dedication to providing a more vital, strong and prosperous United States of America.

The History

Labor Facts

Labor Leaders

Labor Day Party Ideas

Barbecue and Food Safety

Labor Day Poll

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* Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday in September. In 2009, Labor Day will fall on Sept. 7th.

* Labor Day honors the contributions of working men and women to America’s social and economic life.

* In 1893, New York City workers took an unpaid day off and marched around Union Square in support of a national Labor Day. The following year, 12,000 federal troops were called into Pullman, Ill., to break up a huge strike against the Pullman railway company and two workers were shot and killed by U.S. deputy marshals.

* In 1889, a workers’ congress in Paris voted to support the U.S. labor movement’s demand for an eight-hour workday.

* 24.3 minutes: The average time it takes to commute to work.

Interested in more facts about Labor Day? CLICK HERE to read more!

Many consider Labor Day to be the official end to summer. So, why not say goodbye in style!

Check out some great party ideas from DivaVillage to make this Labor Day one to remember!

Labor Day Party Idea #1: Screen a movie outdoors on the side of your house or garage

Create your own little drive-in theater for friends and family! Throw some burgers and hot dogs on the grill, then sit back and enjoy the show! Not sure what film to play? Try one of these labor inspired flicks.

Labor Day Party Idea #2: Cuban 'So-Long-To-Summer' Soiree

Bring summer to a close with a Cuban style fiesta. Make kabobs, fresh salsas and dips, and bring and indoor 'living room' outside to enjoy the summer night.

Labor Day Party Idea #3: Pot Luck/Recipe Share Dinner
What better way to close out the summer, then with friends and family surrounding you? Have them bring their favorite summer dish, and enjoy each others favorite recipes of summer 2009!

Check out more fun, Labor Day inspired party ideas here.

If you find yourself at home on Labor Day, with nothing else to do, check out a few 'labor' inspired films.

1.) The Grapes of Wrath (1940)
2.) Norma Rae (1979)
3.) Nine to Five (1980)
4.) North Country (2005)
5.) Office Space (1999)
6.) Working Girl (1988)
7.) Erin Brockovich (2000)
8.) The Pursuit of Happiness (2006)
9.) Take This Job and Shove It (1981)
10.) Night Shift (1982)

Interested in a few other Labor Day film picks? CLICK HERE to check out the trailers to some other great films, inspired by the American worker.