Labor Day Weekend Kicks Off with Record Travel, Weather Shifts, and Local Festivities

ATLANTA, Aug. 29, 2025 (AP) - The unofficial end of summer officially begins today as millions of Americans embark on Labor Day weekend getaways. From bustling airports to highway snarls and unexpected weather changes, here is what unfolded on Friday, August 29, 2025:

Record-Breaking Travel Demand Airports nationwide saw unprecedented passenger volumes as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) projected a record 17.4 million flyers over the five-day holiday window, with Friday shaping up as the busiest screening day ever. In Oklahoma City, Will Rogers International Airport reported slightly higher security checkpoint counts than last week, forecasting roughly 7,850 travelers on Thursday and 7,536 on Friday.

Smooth Start in San Antonio At San Antonio International, travelers experienced minimal wait times at security early Friday. Airport-goer Laquan, headed to a wedding in Pensacola, noted, “No lines. It’s beautiful,” as manageable crowds set the tone for stress-free departures.

Road Travel Surges and Congestion Warnings The American Automobile Association (AAA) expects more than 44 million travelers to drive this weekend-the highest Labor Day car traffic in nearly a decade. In the Washington, D.C. area, AAA data indicate that a mid-afternoon trip to Baltimore could take 1 hour 35 minutes-an 86% increase over normal drive times. Motorists are advised to travel before 10 a.m. or after 9 p.m. to avoid peak congestion on major arteries and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.

Weather: A Taste of Autumn Arrives A cool front sweeping through the Eastern U.S. ushered in autumn-like temperatures ahead of the holiday. Baltimore and surrounding areas will see daytime highs in the low 80s before dipping into the 40s inland overnight. In the Upper Midwest, the Twin Cities enjoyed mostly dry conditions with highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s, though isolated showers are possible in far western Minnesota.

Local Celebrations and Events Communities nationwide opened Labor Day weekend with parades, beach festivals, and food fairs. New Jersey kicked off its lineup with events like the Jr. Clamshell Pitching Tournament in Cape May and the Great Falls Festival in Paterson, complete with fireworks and live music. In Dallas, pool parties and concert DJs at venues such as The Village Country Club and The Joule’s rooftop bar drew early crowds, while SMU’s football home opener offered fans a Labor Day-themed white-out experience.

Travel Disruptions at Newark In New Jersey, Newark Liberty International Airport faced a temporary ground stop due to air traffic communications interruptions, echoing similar spring issues. The Port Authority estimates 2.4 million passengers will transit the region’s major airports during the six-day period-a new Labor Day travel record.

As temperatures cool and terminals buzz, Americans are urged to plan ahead, check flight statuses, and allow extra time for security or roadway delays to ensure a safe and enjoyable start to the Labor Day weekend.