Labor Day originated in the late 19th century to honor American workers and their contributions, becoming a federal holiday in 1894.

Labor Day was first celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by the Central Labor Union, which held a parade of approximately 10,000 workers to honor laborers and their contributions to society. The idea of a holiday for workers emerged amid the Industrial Revolution, when long hours, unsafe working conditions, and child labor were widespread, prompting labor activists to advocate for recognition and reform