23 Fun Things To Do on Labor Day Weekend in 2025

Looking for fun things to do on Labor Day? Labor Day is the final celebration of summer before cooler weather rolls in, school starts up and pumpkin spice season takes over. While the holiday originally emerged from the labor movement in the late 19th century, today Labor Day is recognized nationwide as a time to relax and enjoy the last stretch of summer. 

Whether you're planning elaborate outdoor adventures or looking for fun holiday party ideas, there are countless things to do on Labor Day that honor both the holiday's meaningful history and the joy of having extra time with loved ones.

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• Unique Labor Day Activities​ for Adults
• Affordable Labor Day Activities​ for Families
• Free Labor Day Activities
• Things To Do on Labor Day FAQs

Unique Labor Day Activities​ for Adults

The Department of Labor records that the first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5th, 1882, in New York City with a concert, a picnic and inspiring speeches. These unique Labor Day activities are our top picks to make the most of the historic holiday.

1. Try Your Hand at Pottery Classes

Pottery classes are a wonderful way to disconnect from screens and create something beautiful while celebrating the spirit of craftsmanship that Labor Day represents. You’ll learn to craft your very own vases, mugs and whatever else you can imagine. Classes are available for all skill levels, so you can start with hand-building pottery and work your way up to more advanced techniques. 

2. Take a Cooking Class

Cooking classes are an ideal long weekend activity because afterward, you'll share a communal meal and enjoy the fruits of your labor. There are a range of great options, with some classes focusing on farm-to-table techniques using local ingredients and others on everything from international cuisines to baking basics. 

Local cooking classes are available all around the country. And if you prefer learning from home, online cooking classes can bring the chef’s table straight to your kitchen. 

3. Get Creative with Painting Classes

Taking a fun painting class during Labor Day is a great way to unwind on your day off. Many local studios offer beginner-friendly sessions over the long weekend, where you’ll learn fundamental painting techniques and create your first masterpiece.

Alternatively, enjoy some creative time at home with online art classes that bring the studio to you.

4. Throw a Game Day Party

The start of football season means tailgating and with games happening all weekend long, there’s always something to tune into. Grab your favorite team gear, set out your best snacks and create the ultimate game-watching experience right in your backyard or living room.

5. Create Red, White, and Blue Treats

Celebrate the end of summer by baking up some red, white and blue desserts. Think berry parfaits layered with whipped cream, flag-themed fruit pizzas and star-spangled cupcakes. It’s a fitting thing to do on Labor Day weekend this year!

6. Plan a Glamping Trip

Glamping is like camping but without sacrificing your favourite creature comforts. And during Labor Day weekend, many sites offer comfy tents with air conditioning, bathrooms and even cozy beds.

7. Take That Bike Ride You've Been Planning

If you still haven’t gone biking for the summer, there’s no better time than Labor Day weekend. Whether it’s a local trail or a scenic path, a bike ride is a great way to get outside and explore while enjoying the freedoms that American workers fought so hard for.

Affordable Labor Day Activities​ for Families

If you’re a family on a budget, then you need to check out these awesome Labor Day activities. Even if a quick getaway is not in the cards for you, there’s so much to do with your loved ones.

8. Create an Outdoor Picnic Experience

One of the simplest things to do on Labor Day is to pack a lunch and head outdoors for hours of family fun. If you live near a national park, consider making it a day trip and check out the National Park Service website for details about park hours and special holiday events.

9. Create Your Own Ice Cream Parlor

Turn your home into the coolest spot for Labor Day activities by hosting an ice cream social. You can set it up as a DIY sundae bar where everyone can create their own treats and experiment with different flavor combinations, from cherry cola with vanilla ice cream to root beer floats.

10. Set Up an Outdoor Cinema

For a fun thing to do on Labor Day that makes the most of the last days of summer, create movie magic right at home. Just be sure to get some fairy lights, popcorn and your favorite family movie. Just be sure to wait until evening when the temperature drops for the best viewing experience. 

11. Play Lawn Games

Nothing says Labor Day quite like an afternoon playing lawn games. Toss bean bags in a cornhole board or fly a kite on a breezy afternoon or organize relay races for the kids. As far as things to do on Labor Day go, this is a classic.

12. Head to the Nearest Shore

A day trip to the water is one of the best things to do on Labor Day​. If you're within driving distance of a beach or lake, make it a point to head out there for a refreshing escape. You can build sandcastles, enjoy a day of swimming and play beach volleyball or water games.

13. Turn on the Sprinkler

The best things to do on Labor Day weekend aren’t always the most elaborate. Running through the sprinkler never gets old, no matter your age. Set one up in your yard and invite the kids to join you for a simple way to cool down on a hot afternoon.

14. Take a Road Trip

A three-day weekend is the ideal time to hit the road with the family. Choose a destination within a few hours' drive from home and let kids help plan the route. They can mark interesting stops on a map and research attractions along the way while playing road trip games in between.

15. Make Homemade Ice Cream

Dust off your ice cream maker for some hands-on Labor Day fun. Although it takes some time, making ice cream from scratch is a wonderful way to teach kids about patience and the value of hard work while making something delicious.

16. Visit a Museum

Finding rewarding things to do on Labor Day isn’t as hard as it might seem. Many museums offer special programming during holiday weekends, making them ideal for last-minute outings. Just be sure to check their hours before you go, so you don’t miss out on any special exhibits or events.

Free Labor Day Activities

You don’t need to spend money to enjoy your Labor Day weekend. These simple but meaningful ideas for things to do on Labor Day will help you make the most of your day off without stretching your budget.

17. Volunteer in Your Community

One of the most rewarding things to do on Labor Day is giving back. You can spend part of your weekend volunteering with a local nonprofit or simply make a donation to a cause you care about. To get started, check out Feeding America to see which food pantries need help or visit Habitat for Humanity to find nearby projects.

18. Make a DIY Apple Wreath

Apple season is just around the corner, making this one of the best things to do on Labor Day to welcome fall. Simply gather some fresh apples, boxwood branches and colorful berries to craft a beautiful wreath for your front door.

19. Try Your Hand at Homemade Pizza

Pizza making is a fun activity that brings everyone together. You can go all out by making your own dough and sauce from scratch or keep it simple with store-bought ingredients. Either way, you’ll end up with a delicious meal the whole family can help with and enjoy.

20. Finally Finish Those Home Improvements

That extra day off gives you the perfect opportunity to cross items off your home improvement list. Easy things to do on Labor Day around the house could include finally painting that scuffed wall, adding a few small updates to the kitchen or organizing your closet.

21. Take That Pool Plunge

Many community pools close right after Labor Day weekend, so this might be your last chance for pool activities. You can jump off the high dive, show off your best cannonball or just float and relax.

22. Sing Karaoke at Home

Crank up the volume and sing your heart out with a patriotic playlist this Labor Day weekend. All you need is an app on your phone or TV to turn your living room into a mini stage.

23. Settle in With a Good Book

Don't let anyone tell you that reading isn't one of the best things to do on Labor Day. After all, what better time to immerse yourself in that book you've been meaning to read than during a relaxing three-day weekend?

Things To Do on Labor Day FAQs

What Do You Do To Celebrate Labor Day?

Everyone celebrates Labor Day a little differently. Some catch a game, visit a local bar or water park or fire up the grill for a backyard BBQ that feels a lot like a relaxed version of a 4th of July party.

Why Can’t You Wear White After Labor Day?

This old rule started in the early 1900s when wealthy New Yorkers wore white clothing as a sign of status. Rich families would wear white during summer, then switch to darker colors after Labor Day when they returned from vacation. While this rule has relaxed over time, some people still follow it today.

What Are 5 Things About Labor Day?

1. The first Labor Day was held on September 5, 1882, in New York City.

2. Oregon was the first state to make it an official holiday in 1887.

3. Before 1916, most workers labored 12-hour days, 7 days a week.

4. The Adamson Act, passed on September 3, 1916, created the 8-hour workday.

5. Most European countries honor workers on May 1st instead.

What Is a Traditional Food for Labor Day?

Beyond hamburgers and hot dogs, Labor Day weekend is a dream come true for grill masters. Think smoked meatballs grilled over direct heat, steak tacos and for dessert, options like olive oil cake and grilled fruit. Chop salad is another Labor Day weekend favorite at tailgates and backyard BBQs alike. It’s not only healthy and filling but tasty, especially with bacon. 

Labor Day activities serve as an end-of-summer celebration for many families, who gather across America for barbecues, beach trips and backyard celebrations to make the most of their long weekend together. It’s one of the best times to make lasting memories with your loved ones and there are endless things to do on Labor Day, from playing outdoor games to visiting local festivals and enjoying nature walks. 

For even more fun ways to celebrate, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!