The summer’s almost over, and we’re as shocked as you are. Thankfully, we have a three-day weekend to look forward to. And some really tasty food to help us cope with the loss.
If you’re part of the workforce, you may be well-aware that Labor Day falls on the first Monday in September. Interestingly, a Travelocity survey of 1,000 Americans revealed that the majority of people — in a three-to-one margin — view Labor Day as the last weekend of summer instead of the first weekend of fall. According to the United States Department of Labor, the holiday was created as part of the labor movement, commemorating the social and economic achievements of our American workers. Each year, we’re granted this bonus day off, marked by backyard barbecues, picnics in the park, pool parties, and dirt-cheap Labor Day sales, as a nod to the strength and prosperity that make our country great.
But what many of us don’t know about the annual holiday (or what we may have forgotten from our school years) is this:
- The first Labor Day in the U.S. was observed in New York City on Tuesday, September 5, 1882. On the holiday, planned by the Central Labor Union, 10,000 workers marched from New York City’s City Hall down to 42nd Street, where families met at the park for a picnic, concert, and speeches.
- Canada may be the country credited with coming up with the idea for a holiday to honor the labor movement in the first place. Canada’s “Nine-Hour Movement” took place in 1872 to offer support for workers on strike.
- The first state to name Labor Day as a legal holiday was Oregon in 1887.
- Grover Cleveland was the president to put Labor Day on the calendar at the national level. In 1894, President Cleveland signed an act to establish the federal holiday, though most states had already passed their own Labor Day observances by then.
- The perception of Labor Day has changed over the years. When it began in the 19th century, the holiday centered around large parades in cities. Today’s Labor Day typically signifies the end of summer and is celebrated locally with friends and family. Now we see fewer city-wide parades and more shared community activities.
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How to make Labor Day watermelon salad: Ingredients
- 8-10 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1/2 a watermelon)
- 2 cups blueberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta
- 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
- Juice from 3 limes
- Honey (optional)
It may be the end of the summer, but it’s never too late to buy a house. Start by getting prequalified online.
How to make Labor Day watermelon salad: Tutorial
You’ve been working hard all year long, contributing to the greater good of our country. That’s reason enough to celebrate. If you’re pressed for time between work and family, you’ll be glad to know that this fresh red, white, and blue watermelon salad is easy enough to put together in under 10 minutes.
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This end-of-summer salad will also give you one last chance to enjoy some juicy watermelon while it’s in season. Here’s where to begin:
Get started
1. Gather your ingredients and chop fruit and mint as needed.
Image: Bethany Ramos
Next
2. Add fresh fruit, cheese, and mint to a large bowl.
Image: Bethany Ramos
Next
3. Toss together with fresh lime juice.
Image: Bethany Ramos
Next
4. Drizzle with honey as an optional garnish.
Image: Bethany Ramos
Next
5. Serve right away or chill to enjoy later.
Image: Bethany Ramos
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For educational purposes only. Please contact your qualified professional for specific guidance.
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