In 1882, when a New York workers' union declared the first Monday in September a day set aside to honor all workers Labor Day was born. Its initial celebration on September 5, 1882 was celebrated with a parade and speeches about improving working conditions, which still occur today. Twelve years later, in 1894 Labor Day became a National Holiday. With families gathered for the summers final picnic this holiday symbolized the reopening of school and a return to fall routines . The more traditional celebration of Labor Day around the world is May 1st.