We wish you safe travels and a happy 2017 Labor Day weekend!
Summer’s (Unofficial) End?
Although Labor Day is commonly celebrated as the three-day weekend that marks the unofficial end of summer, it originated as a day of recognition of the contributions made by the U.S. labor movement and the men and women of the American workforce.
Labor Day’s Origin
The first Labor Day Parade was held in New York City on September 5, 1882 Because of the growing popularity of Labor Day celebrations in various states, in 1893, South Dakota Senator James Kyle introduced a bill in the 53rd Congress to make Labor Day a legal federal holiday on the first Monday of September each year. President Grover Cleveland signed the act on June 28th in 1894.
Why No White Clothes??
Traditionally, the most steadfast fashion rule has been a moratorium on wearing white after Labor Day. But why? The custom is said to have its roots in the early 20th century, when the era-typical fashion was to wear dark colors in the workplace. In literal contrast, the summer vacation tradition, for those with financial means, was to trade their dark work suits and dresses for those made of lighter, airy white linen. As those in high-society were natural fashion leaders, and as Labor Day has long been co-opted as the end of summer vacation season, the return to the work world and requisite dark fashions became the customary rule.
Hot Dog Season is Over!
It is common to hear that Labor Day is the end of hot dog season. However, that does not mean hot dogs won’t be available at baseball parks during the post-season. In this case, “hot dog season” refers to the hot dog industry’s peak sales season, which lasts from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Between these book-end holidays falls summer grilling season, the majority of baseball season, and the king of all dog days, the 4th of July. During the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Americans typically eat 7 billion hot dogs, according to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council.