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Step 1
How Labor Day Began
On September 5, 1882 in New York City the first Labor Day in the U.S. was celebrated as a “workingman’s holiday” when (despite the threat of mass firings!) workers united in a parade 10,000 strong down Broadway proudly led by Irish-American activist Peter MacGuire.
A holiday was born.
From New York, the idea spread across the country to honor workers every year. Congress finally passed official legislation in 1894 making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday. This year, it falls on September 7th, 2008. -
Step 2
You don’t have to get too fancy for this last great summer bbq. You can do this at your home, the local park, or the beach. Keep it simple with the food, decorate in red white and blue, and have fun games for the kids to play. All American food should be on the menu!
hot dogs
hamburgers
potato chips
corn on the cob
watermelon
root beer floats (don’t forget the straws)
cupcakes decorated colored sprinkles
homemade ice-cream (kids take turns cranking) or make your own sundaes
strawberry shortcake or parfaits -
Step 3
Keep the kids busy with fun games!
Have relay races, a water balloon toss, hoola hoop contests, sidewalk chalk drawing, bocce ball, a family dodge ball game, or softball game! -
Step 4
Remember this is the last bbq of the summer! Make it count! Let the kids invite some of their friends over, invite your family, and neighbors! Start a tradition! When someone offers to bring something, don’t be shy, take them up on the offer. This should be fun, not work! Use paper plates, and plastic silverware and cups.
Were not getting fancy here, were just enjoying the weather and the good company of our friends and family. Maybe you can go see the parade before the picnic, or go see the fireworks after you all eat. Bring blankets and pack a basket with dessert and beverages. Don’t forget the bug repellent and leave the cell phone home. Snuggle your kids on your lap and remember the great summer you shared this year.
