Labor Day weekend is upon us in Champaign-Urbana, and what does that mean? It’s the (un)official end of summer. Time for barbecues to fire up. It’s also a time to reflect on those who toiled before us and fought for our rights (eight-hour workday, anyone? Oh right, we’re parents. … ha!)
Some Labor Day fun facts:
- Grover Cleveland made Labor Day a federal holiday in 1894 after a failed attempt to break-up a railroad strike.
- The first U.S. observance of Labor Day came in the form of a parade sponsored by the Central Labor Union. On Sept. 5, 1882, 10,000 workers paraded through New York City in order to gain support for the eight-hour workday.
- Labor Day has its origins in Canada. YES CANADA!
- In many other countries, May Day (May 1) is the day working people are honored.
Other info you need to know about Labor Day in Champaign-Urbana:
What is CLOSED?
Government offices: Federal, state, county and city administrative offices closed.
Postal service: All post offices will be closed. No mail will be delivered.
Courts: Federal, state and county closed.
Banks: Most closed.
Libraries: All are closed.
Transit: No Champaign-Urbana MTD service. Amtrak operates as usual.
Parking: As a city holiday, metered parking in Champaign and Urbana is free on Labor Day.
Museums: All are closed.
What is OPEN?
Grocery stores, some retail (most mom and pop places will be closed), car dealers. Call ahead when in doubt.
Clinton Lake Beach: Open through this weekend.
Curtis Orchard is among the places you can visit to get outdoors and, if you’re up for it, pick some apples. Click here for a schedule of their regular attractions.
If you are looking for more information on what to do on Labor Day weekend with your family, check out our events calendar and our Weekend Planner article.