Labor Day (United States) 2026
Labor Day (United States) 2026 falls on Monday, September 7, 2026.
What is Labor Day (United States)?
Labor Day falls on the first Monday of September each year, unofficially marking the end of summer in American culture. In 2026, that's September 7. It honors the American labor movement and the contributions workers have made to the country's development and prosperity.
Where the tradition comes from
The holiday's roots trace to the labor union movement of the late 1800s, with the first Labor Day parade held in New York City in 1882. It became a federal holiday in 1894, signed into law by President Grover Cleveland just days after federal troops broke up the Pullman Strike — a move seen partly as an attempt to smooth over relations with the labor movement.
How it's observed in 2026
As a federal holiday, Labor Day closes federal offices, most banks, and the postal service. It's also one of the more consistently observed holidays among private employers, and traditionally marks the end of the retail 'white after Labor Day' fashion rule and the start of the school year in much of the country.
Common questions
What day is Labor Day 2026?
Labor Day 2026 falls on Monday, September 7 — always the first Monday of September.
Is Labor Day the same as International Workers' Day?
No — the US deliberately chose September over May 1 (International Workers' Day, observed in many other countries) in the 1880s, partly to distance the holiday from the more radical associations of May Day at the time.
Is mail delivered on Labor Day?
No — Labor Day is one of the USPS's observed holidays, so mail is not delivered.