Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer for many Americans and we love to celebrate with our family, friends, and pets.
But, back in the late 1800s, the average American worked 12-hours per day seven days per week with children as young as 5 or 6 sweating in mills, mines, and factories too.
Fortunately, in the late 19th century, the labor movement fought for workers rights that led to a federal holiday in 1894 to recognize hardworking American workers.1
My Top 10 Fun Activities for the Labor Day Weekend
#10 Walk in the Forest or Visit a National Park 🌲
I love walking among trees and connecting with nature. This weekend is perfect for planning a local outing or camping trip with friends or family. The weather is just right to explore your favorite trailhead or one of the 63 National Parks in the US.2
#9 Pack a Picnic 🧺
Be sure to pack a picnic before you go! We love bringing a picnic for all our journeys to lakes, rivers, parks, gardens, and outdoor adventures. I love Kathy’s jar salads – they’re so healthy and delicious! You can even host a family picnic in your own backyard.


#8 Host Family and Friends 👨👩👧👦
Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer and is the perfect time to host friends and family for yard games, food, and fun!
#7 Decorate for Fall 🍁
The Labor Day weekend marks the gradual transition from summer to fall and is an opportunity to add some decorations to your home or seasonal hutch.
#6 Read a Good Book 📚
I love reading and this weekend is the perfect time to take a break from your busy life and relax with a good murder mystery, historical fiction, or learn more about the real history of our Labor Day holiday in the US.3
#5 Volunteer in Your Community 👋
Share your extra time this holiday weekend by helping others in your community! Volunteer to glean fruit from a neighbor’s tree or deliver fresh produce to a local food pantry or any local group that could use your service.






#4 Attend a Local Labor Union Picnic 🌭
A great way to celebrate the holiday and support the labor movement is by attending a local labor union picnic in your community. Also, be sure to buy union-produced food products especially this weekend.
#3 Escape to the Coast 🌊
We are so lucky to live close to the Pacific Northwest coast in Oregon! A quick trip to the beach for an extended family weekend before the new school year or just a day trip is so much fun! We love toasting marshmallows and watching sunsets. Be sure to bring beach chairs, towels, and sunscreen!


#2 BBQ on the Grill 🍔
I love cooking outdoors and grilling is one of my favorite pastimes at home or at campsite. My favorites include hamburgers, hotdogs, salmon, grilled vegetables, pork chops with side of delicious grilled peaches glazed with homemade rhubarb jam and scoop of vanilla ice cream.




#1 Watch a Football Game 🏈
I will be watching lots of football games with high school, college, and NFL games throughout the entire extended weekend! My favorite destination for a football game is the Rose Bowl in Pasadena!4
Enjoy your Labor Day weekend! 😊


https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/labor-day-1
https://www.nps.gov/index.htm
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/127839545-labor-day-in-the-united-states-of-america
https://www.rosebowlstadium.com/