7 Interesting Facts About Labor Day That Will Surprise You

7 Interesting Facts About Labor Day That Will Surprise You This Monday, September 3rd is Labor Day, in the United States. Families across the country will celebrate with barbecues, picnics, sporting events, and activities on the beach. It’s our last opportunity to enjoy the summer  before  it ends. This is what Labor Day has traditionally been known for. However, the history of Labor Day is a little more complex than  picnics and barbecue celebrations. Here are some interesting facts about Labor Day that you might not have known were true. Fact #1The first Labor Day occurred on September 5, 1882 in New York City.Fact #2Oregon was the first state to make Labor Day an official holiday in 1887.Fact #3The holiday’s origins stem back to the 1800s when the average American worked 12-hours a day, 7-days a week. Children ages 5-6 worked in factories and mines.Fact #4People avoided wearing white clothing after Labor Day as it unofficially marked the end of summer.Fact #5Labor Day began in Toronto, Canada in 1872 but quickly made i ts way to  the United States.Fact #6Labor Day began as a demonstration for workers rights but is modernly seen as an opportunity to celebrate the last day of summer.Fact #7In other countries, May 1st (May Day) is the day working people are honored. The majority of Europe celebrates May Day.Sources: [Forbes,  DoSomething.org,  CNN]