Imagine this: You're sprinting on an endless track, chasing after some elusive finish line. At first, it's exhilarating—the rush, the adrenaline, the challenge.
But after that initial excitement has worn off, that heart-pumping thrill turns into a throbbing numbness in your legs, and the weight of exhaustion sets in that seemingly just gets heavier and heavier with each excruciating step you take.
You're clocking in extra hours, skipping lunch breaks, and your social life feels like a faint and distant memory left behind at the starting line. Gradually, exhaustion creeps in like an unwelcome guest, burnout crashes the party, and suddenly, that finish line you were chasing seems like it’s nowhere in sight.
Working too hard can be like pouring all your energy into a leaking bucket—eventually, there's nothing left. It's like attempting to run a marathon at a sprinter's pace. You're left feeling fried, unmotivated, and just plain drained.
Labor Day serves as an important reminder that even the most passionate flames need a breather to blaze on and continue burning brightly.
Read on to learn the history behind Labor Day, the origins of the sacred fashion statement that proclaims no wearing white after Labor Day, and some suggestions of rewarding and refreshing ways that you can enjoy your long weekend this year.
When is Labor Day 2023?
Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday of September every year.
This year, in 2023, Labor Day falls on Monday, September 4.
Why Do We Celebrate Labor Day?
Labor Day is a federal holiday celebrated on the first Monday of September each year dedicated to honoring the contributions and achievements of the American workforce and the labor movement.
The holiday serves as a tribute to the history and social and economic accomplishments of workers, as well as a recognition of the broader labor movement's efforts to secure better working conditions, fair wages, and workers' rights.
Originating in the late 19th century, Labor Day emerged from the labor movement's advocacy for better treatment of workers who faced grueling hours, unsafe conditions, and meager pay.
The Haymarket affair in Chicago in 1886, where workers passionately advocated for an eight-hour workday, played a significant role in the establishment of Labor Day—It was only years after this incident, in 1984, that the day was officially recognized as a federal holiday.
The holiday's establishment was a way to honor the progress made through the movement's efforts, as well as to provide a dedicated day of rest for workers to celebrate their achievements and recharge.
Labor Day also marks the unofficial end of summer and is often associated with various outdoor activities, parades, barbecues, and picnics, rewarding workers with a long weekend for people to relax and spend time with family and friends.
Several businesses, government offices, and schools are closed on Labor Day, allowing many to take a break from their regular routines and enjoy the last days of summer.
Why Can’t You Wear White After Labor Day?
Before you make a mad dash to your closet to toss out all of your white capris, keep in mind that this extremist rule is not to be taken too seriously.
However, some of the theories behind the origins of this “rule” are fascinating, to say the least.
For example, one theory of how this fashion sin was born begins at the turn of the century, thanks to the always dependable, creative classism of none other than the old money elite.
The “old money” elitists aimed to further elevate and distinguish themselves from the newly wealthy, also known as “the nouveau riche.” Adhering to this unspoken style sentiment signaled to other old money elitists that you were one of them.
Another theory poses that during the early 20th century, the color white was considered vacation attire for those who could afford to travel from the city to the country during the summer months.
Those who were too poor to escape the filth of the urban grime remained in the city, doomed to wear dark-colored clothes, as the city was far too dirty to dare to wear white.
However, there are other more practical theories that aren’t rooted in social stigmatism.
Some say that from a functional standpoint, people wore white during the summer, simply because the color was cooler and reflected the sunlight.
Others say that once Labor Day became a federal holiday, it became associated with the end of summer, indicating that it was time to switch out your light summer linens with darker, thicker fabrics more suited for cooler weather.
No matter what theory you believe to be true, remember that this rule holds no real weight.
So, wear whatever color you want whenever you want, whether it’s spring or fall, summer or winter.
Restful and Rewarding Ways to Spend Your Labor Day Weekend This Year
1. Have a Family and Friends Get-Together
This is the one weekend when your plans don’t revolve around everyone’s conflicting work schedules and busy, hectic lives—So why not throw down in the backyard with a good, old-fashioned BBQ and some beer to wash it down?
Invite over some of your closest friends and family for a relaxation-filled day packed full of mouth-watering food, fun outdoor games, and enjoy precious quality time spent in good company.
2. Attend a Local Parade or Festival
Labor Day is a time to recognize and celebrate the formidable workforce that sustains the success of our country.
Attend a local parade or festival to witness the vibrant displays of community spirit and labor pride with energizing marching bands, elaborately designed floats, and entertaining performances.
3. Get Away for the Weekend
As Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer, it's a popular time for a last-minute getaway to let the summer sizzle out with one last fun, family fling.
Sunbathe on the breezy beach or lounge around your leisurely lake house.
Spend a relaxing weekend on the water and soak up the remaining warmth of the summer season as we seamlessly shift into September.
4. Get Some Well-Deserved Rest
If you really want to get into the spirit of Labor Day, this is the best way to do it—By doing absolutely nothing.
You’ve earned it! This is your time. Take it as corporate America’s way of saying “thank you” for all of your hard work.
Relax and unwind over the long weekend with some well-deserved rest and self-care indulgence.
Whether that means reading that book you’ve been meaning to get around to, soaking in a steaming hot tub, taking a leisurely stroll around the park, binge-watching your favorite TV series, or hibernating under the covers until Tuesday morning, use this priceless time to reward and refresh yourself.
