Labor Day will be observed on Monday, September 1, 2025. The holiday honors the social and economic achievements of American workers. Its origins date back to the late nineteenth century when labor activists called for a federal holiday to recognize workers’ contributions to the nation’s strength and prosperity.
The first Labor Day took place on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by the Central Labor Union. The following year saw another celebration on September 5, 1883. By 1894, twenty-three states had adopted Labor Day as a holiday. On June 28 of that year, President Grover Cleveland signed legislation making the first Monday in September a national holiday.
Traditionally, Americans mark Labor Day with parades and gatherings. Early proposals for the holiday recommended “a street parade to exhibit ‘the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations’ of the community,” followed by events for recreation and amusement.
In observance of Labor Day, U.S. Embassy Finland will be closed on Monday, September 1.
Further information about Labor Day’s history is available from the U.S. Department of Labor at https://www.dol.gov/general/laborday/history.