Made a national holiday in 1894, Labor Day activities have long marked the unofficial end of summer.
Capitalize on the three-day weekend by hosting a backyard barbecue, taking a road trip to a Southern city, putting your toes in the sand, or planning a picnic. We’ve rounded up nine Labor Day activities and ideas for making the most of the season’s bittersweet finale.
1. Do Some Small-Town Shopping
Big retailers and small businesses alike often host special sales for Labor Day. Support local boutiques and specialty stores in your own hometown or a nearby Southern burg.
2. Host an Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social
At summer’s peak, we all scream for ice cream! Gather friends and family for a party that pays homage to the season’s sweetest treat.
3. Stroll Through a Local Park
Fresh air and summer sunshine are good for the soul. Enjoy the perks of a public park in your neighborhood or city, whether you like to walk, bike, play games, or simply watch the world go by from a bench in the shade.
4. Grill for a Crowd
It’s the best time of the year for cookouts and barbecues. From savory ribs and burgers to sliced fruit, grilled fare is a sure way to satisfy gathered guests. Peruse 16 crowd-pleasing recipes here.
5. Set a Patriotic Table
Take cues from Old Glory to fashion a tablescape teeming with red, white, and blue. Browse our favorite place settings and decorative details with all-American charm here.
6. Head to the River, Lake, or Beach
Spend time on the water with those you hold dear. Whether boating, fishing, or collecting treasures along the shoreline, Labor Day activities abound amid such tranquil surrounds. Looking for a dreamy escape? Here are five coastal destinations across the South.
7. Plan a Pretty Picnic
It’s hard to beat the laid-back ambience of a picnic in your own backyard. With a colorful blanket and hardy dishware—plus plenty of flowers—not even four-legged friends can resist the fun.
8. Bake a Sweet Treat
Roll up your sleeves for a little baking therapy. Old-fashioned goodies, chocolate delights, and citrus-kissed bites are sure to elicit smiles all around.
9. Find a Cozy Place to Read or Relax
Put your toes in the sand or prop them up in a comfy hammock. A siesta with a sea breeze sounds just as nice as whiling away the afternoon with a good book or the latest issue of Southern Lady.
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