From the nation’s inception, the strength of workers has shaped America. Early settlers laid the foundation, and later generations built railroads, steel mills, and skyscrapers. America has always drawn its power from labor. This Labor Day, we honor that tradition and the resilience of workers nearly 250 years later.
Workers are the heart of the economy and the foundation of national strength. From nurses and farmers to welders and truckers, every job and every hour of labor adds to the country’s progress. In recent decades, jobs have moved overseas, industries have declined, and communities have suffered. That shifted in 2025. The administration says it is restoring respect for labor by encouraging buying and hiring Americans, rebuilding manufacturing cities, and securing fair trade deals. Billions in tariff revenue are supporting American-made goods, and jobs are returning to local communities.
Across the country, wages are stronger and jobs are growing. The president promises to defend citizens who work with honesty, follow the law, and seek a better future for their families.
This Labor Day is a time to protect American jobs and celebrate the role of workers in shaping the nation’s past, present, and future. The president has proclaimed September 1, 2025, as Labor Day, calling on all citizens to honor America’s workforce with events and activities.
How did Labor Day begin?
Two workers can make a solid claim to the title of Labor Day’s official founder, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Some records indicate Peter J. McGuire, co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, was the first to suggest the idea for the holiday in 1882. However, recent research supports the contention that machinist Matthew Maguire proposed the holiday in 1882, while serving as secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York.
Regardless of who proposed the holiday, Labor Day soon became recognised by labor activists and individual states long before becoming a federal holiday. Organised by the Central Labor Union, the Labor Day holiday was first celebrated in New York City in 1882, according to the Department of Labor. On that day, 10,000 workers took unpaid time off to march from City Hall to Union Square, according to History.com.
New York was also the first state to introduce a bill recognising Labor Day, but Oregon was the first to pass such a law in 1887, according to the Department of Labor. By 1894, 32 states had adopted the holiday.
Retail and grocers
Consumers looking to do some grocery shopping will find that Costco warehouses are closed. Aldi locations will operate on limited hours, depending on the location, and most Whole Foods locations will be open; however, customers should check the hours for local stores. Meanwhile, Trader Joe’s and stores under Kroger, which include Kroger, Pick’ n Save, Harris Teeter, Fred Meyer, and Ralphs, will operate according to their usual hours.
Most major retailers, like Walmart and Target, will operate normally on Labor Day. Home Depot will also be open for anyone looking for deals on power tools and appliances.
Walgreens stores will follow regular hours on Monday, but most of its pharmacies, with the exception of 24-hour locations and select locations, will be closed. CVS stores and pharmacies will remain open, but hours may vary by location.
Postal services
The United States Postal Service, an independent federal agency, will observe the holiday and will not pick up or deliver mail. UPS will also not pick up or deliver mail, and locations may be closed. UPS Express Critical will continue to operate as usual. Most FedEx services will be closed. The FedEx office, which offers printing services, will have modified hours, while FedEx Custom Critical will remain open.
Banks
Most banks will be closed for the federal banking holiday, although online banking services and ATMs will remain open. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will be closed.
Government offices
State and local courts, as well as administrative offices, will be closed. Federal offices and government buildings, like the DMV and public libraries, will also be closed. Rooted in the labor movement of the 19th century, Labor Day originated during a dismal time for America’s workforce, which faced long hours, low wages and unsafe working conditions.
As labor unions and activists advocated and fought for better treatment for workers, at the height of the Industrial Revolution, the idea arose to establish a day dedicated to celebrating the members of trade and labor unions.
Conclusion
Labor Day reminds us of the struggles and victories of American workers who built the nation with their hands, skills, and determination. From the marches of the 1800s to today’s parades, rallies, and celebrations, the holiday carries the spirit of unity and respect for labor. While stores, banks, and offices close their doors, communities gather to honour those who keep the country moving forward. It is a day to pause, reflect, and celebrate the workers who shaped America’s past and continue to power its future.
