Labor Day in New York 2025

Labor Day in New York is a national holiday that marks the end of the summer season, and in 2025, falls on Monday September 1st. Originally, Labor Day is an annual tribute to the contribution that workers have made to the strength, success and welfare of the United States. It is also the last chance to go to or organise an outdoor event or a long weekend away. What can you do in New York during Labor Day?

What to Expect During Labor Day?

Most restaurants and shops will remain open during Labour Day, but all schools, government offices and most businesses will be closed. New Yorkers go out to a picnic or barbecue in parks. Also, many people spend the weekend out of town in The Hamptons or Fire Island to close off the summer season.

During Labor Day and Labor Day weekend, there are a lot of special events that are fun to do. See a complete overview of parties, cruises and more here.

What to do on Labor Day in New York?

Are you in New York on Labor Day and looking for some inspiration on how to spend this holiday? I’m happy to give you my tips:

1. Visit a Museum

   You might be able to visit a museum on Labor Day; museums that are normally open on the day that Labor Day falls will be open as usual.

2. Go Outdoors

   Governors Island is a popular spot to enjoy the outdoors. Furthermore, you can go to one of the many parks in New York and enjoy the last rays of the summer sun along with the New Yorkers.

    

3. Watch a Parade

   If you want to do what the locals do (those who are still in town) then go to Brooklyn to watch the West Indian Parade. You can get the most delicious street food, and there are entertaining music and lively dancers. The parade takes place annually on every Labor Day.

   There is also a Labor Day Parade, which is always held on the first or second Saturday of September. The Labor Day parade originated on the very first Labor Day in 1882 and has continued ever since. The day revolved around festivities for the working class and their families.

4. Enjoy a Sports Game

   The baseball season is in full swing around Labor Day, which means that the New York Yankees and New York Mets might be playing a home game. No game on Labor Day? Then there’s probably one right before or after. Attending a sports game in New York is always a great experience, so I definitely recommend going!

The Difference Between Labor Day and International Workers’ Day

In many countries in the world, Labor Day is celebrated in May. Labor Day is the same as International Workers’ Day, but in the United States (and also in Australia and Canada) Labor Day is celebrated on a different day than on the 1st of May.

The United States has chosen to celebrate in September instead because it filled the large gap between the two national holidays: Thanksgiving and Independence Day.