Dateline: August 25, 2025 - U.S. News Wire

Interest in “when is Labor Day” surges as Americans plan for end-of-summer holiday

August 25, 2025 (U.S.) - Google Trends data show that searches for “when is Labor Day” spiked by more than 150% over the past 24 hours, reflecting a wave of last-minute holiday planning as Labor Day weekend nears.

Labor Day 2025 falls on Monday, September 1, marking the earliest possible date for the federal holiday, which is observed annually on the first Monday of September.

With less than one week until the long weekend, travel booking sites and retail retailers report heightened traffic. AAA travel data indicate that more than 57% of American adults intend to travel over Labor Day weekend, with nearly half planning road trips to beaches and lakes.

Major retailers have already launched their Labor Day promotions, offering deep discounts on appliances, outdoor gear, and apparel ahead of the three-day sales event. Meanwhile, government offices, banks, and the U.S. Postal Service will close on September 1 in observance of the holiday.

Originally established as a federal holiday in 1894 to honor American workers and the labor movement, Labor Day has evolved into both a tribute and an unofficial bookend to summer. The holiday weekend traditionally features parades, barbecues, and family gatherings while also driving one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

Public transit agencies and airports are advising travelers to expect heavier crowds starting Saturday, August 30, as millions take advantage of the extended weekend.

What to Know

  • Date: Monday, September 1, 2025
  • Observance: Federal holiday; government offices, banks, and USPS closed
  • Travel: High traffic on roads, airports, and train stations over August 30-September 1
  • Retail: Major Labor Day sales underway at Amazon, Target, Walmart, and department stores
  • Origin: First celebrated in New York City on September 5, 1882; became a federal holiday in 1894

For more details on holiday schedules and local events, consumers are advised to check official state and municipal calendars.