What is Labor Day?

Labor Day is the “unofficial end of summer” because it marks the end of the summer season. But what is Labor Day?

In the early 1880s, groups of trade unionists chose various days to celebrate labor. More than 80 countries celebrate labor in May. In the United States, a public parade of various labor organizations was held on September 5, 1882. The American Federation of Labor proposed a September holiday called Labor Day for the first Monday in September. This time was chosen because it fell halfway between the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving. Labor Day became a Federal Holiday in 1894, but it was only for Federal employees. As late as the 1930s, unions were encouraging workers to strike to make sure they got the day off. All U.S. states, territories, and the District of Columbia have subsequently made Labor Day a statutory holiday, giving us the last long weekend of summer.

In the fashion world, Labor Day is considered the last day when it’s acceptable to wear white or seersucker. For retailers and shoppers, Labor Day weekend is an important shopping time with many back-to-school sales. Some retailers claim it is one of the largest sale dates of the year, second only to Black Friday.

In Callaway County, Labor Day Weekend is known for the Mokane World’s Fair. Started by the Mokane Lions Club as the Fall Festival, the event features barbecued mutton, live music, and a carnival. The event was originally held in the middle of the street in downtown Mokane, blocking Route C. Eventually, it was moved to Lions Club Park on River Street, where it remains today. It came to be known as the “Mokane World’s Fair” thanks to local radio personality Ron Lutz who gave it the name in jest in the mid-60s. It has evolved into a community-wide event with many people and groups assisting the Lions Club members.