What is Labor Day?
Labor Day traditionally marks the official end of summer in the United States. Celebrated on the first Monday in September, this federal holiday pays tribute to the contributions of American workers. In New York, this day has a special significance because it was here that the first Labor Day parade took place in 1882, in the streets of Manhattan.
This bank holiday transforms New York into a veritable capital of celebration, offering visitors a unique experience combining history, culture and festivities. Please note: many shops and attractions may have modified opening hours or be closed on Labor Day.
Not-to-be-missed events
The big Labor Day parade
The official Labor Day parade remains the highlight of the weekend. Organized by the NYC Central Labor Council, it traditionally marches down Fifth Avenue on the Saturday of Labor Day weekend, starting at 44th Street and going all the way up to 64th Street. More than 20,000 participants representing different unions, organisations and communities march in a festive and protest atmosphere.
Practical tip: arrive early in the morning to get the best viewing spots, especially near Washington Square Park where the atmosphere is most electric.
Festivals and free concerts
Labor Day weekend sees a host of free festivals spring up across the five boroughs. The West Indian American Day Carnival in Brooklyn attracts over a million visitors with its colourful costumes, Caribbean music and authentic food. In Central Park, the SummerStage concerts offer free musical performances by internationally renowned artists.
Enjoying the city in a different way
Parks in celebration
Labor Day marks the last great summer celebration in New York’s parks. Central Park comes alive with giant picnics, frisbee games and impromptu concerts. Bryant Park offers special family activities, while the High Line offers spectacular views of the city in a relaxed atmosphere.
Expert tip: Brooklyn Bridge Park and Hudson River Park are less crowded than Central Park but still offer magnificent green spaces with breathtaking views over Manhattan.
Shopping and bargains
Labor Day weekend coincides with the biggest end-of-summer sale of the year. Major fifth Avenue department stores such as Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s and Saks Fifth Avenue are offering discounts of up to 70%. Outlets in New Jersey and on Long Island are holding exceptional sales, accessible by public transport.
Gastronomy and seasonal flavours
Farmers markets
Labor Day weekend sees the last of the summer harvest arrive at New York’s farmers markets. Union Square Greenmarket is bursting with heirloom tomatoes, sweet corn and juicy peaches. Chefs at restaurants in Brooklyn and Queens are creating special menus to celebrate these seasonal products.
Unique culinary experiences
Manhattan‘s famous rooftops offer special Labor Day brunches with panoramic views over the city. 230 Fifth and Top of the Rock offer unforgettable dining experiences. In Little Italy and Chinatown, restaurants organise street festivals with free tastings.
Practical tips for your stay
Transport and accommodation
Book your accommodation in advance: Labor Day weekend is one of the busiest weekends of the year in New York. Hotels in Midtown and Lower Manhattan often sell out. Consider Long Island City or Jersey City for more affordable alternatives with quick access to Manhattan.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA ) is introducing enhanced services on the main lines, but expect more crowds than usual.
Weather and clothing
The weather in New York in September is generally ideal, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C. Evenings can be cool, so pack a light jacket. Days can alternate between sunshine and occasional showers, so a compact umbrella will be your best ally.
Special Post-Labor Day activities
Back to culture
Just after Labor Day, New York enters its richest cultural season. Broadway unveils its new productions, and museums like the Metropolitan Museum and MoMA open their autumn exhibitions. It’s the perfect time to discover the city from a more sophisticated, less touristy angle.
The first autumn leaves
Although September marks the beginning of autumn, Central Park and Prospect Park are beginning to display their first autumn colours. Early morning walks in these green spaces offer exceptional photographic experiences with a golden light that is unique at this time of year.
Labor Day in New York is much more than just a public holiday: it’s an authentic celebration of the New York spirit, combining history, culture and joie de vivre in an atmosphere unlike any other in the world.
Questions about Labor Day
Labor Day is the American Labour Day, celebrated on the first Monday in September. It is a federal holiday that pays tribute to American workers and traditionally marks the official end of summer. It has a special significance in New York, where the very first Labor Day parade was held in 1882.
Labor Day falls on Monday 1 September 2025. The festivities are usually spread over the previous weekend, but this year (2025), as 1 September is a Monday, there will be a 3-day weekend (Saturday 30 August, Sunday 31 August, Monday 1 September).
Unlike the international Labour Day celebrated on May 1st, the United States chose September to avoid any association with the socialist and anarchist demonstrations of May 1st. American Labor Day emphasises the positive contribution made by workers to the economy rather than political demands.
The main parade takes place on the Saturday of Labor Day weekend (6 September 2025) at 10am. It starts at Fifth Avenue and 44th Street and goes north to 64th Street. The parade usually lasts 2 to 3 hours.
Closed on Monday:
- All government offices (town halls, post offices, etc.)
- Banks
- Schools and universities
- Many company offices
- Some museums (check in advance)
Normally open :
- Most restaurants and cafés
- Shopping centres and shops
- Major tourist attractions(Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, etc.)
- Public transport (with potentially modified timetables)
Absolutely! Labor Day weekend marks the biggest end-of-summer sale of the year. Department stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue offer discounts of up to 70%. It’s the perfect time to shop, especially for summer clothes.
