It’s almost Labor Day weekend! For many this means a long weekend off work marking the end of summer. However, this holiday stands for much more – read on to learn about the real meaning behind Labor Day, and some fun ideas to celebrate it here in Western North Carolina.
The Meaning and History of Labor Day
Unique among the other summer holidays, Labor Day is not a remembrance of noble military contributions, but rather about celebrating economic development in our nation. First developed in the late nineteenth century, Labor Day was first recognized when labor activists pushed for a federal holiday to recognize the contribution of America’s workers. We celebrate this holiday yearly on the first Monday in September.
Before becoming a federal holiday, it was celebrated in various states led by local labor activists, the first celebration being held in September of 1882 in New York City. The holiday was championed by unions of the era.
Celebrating Labor Day at Home
This holiday is often observed with parades, parties, and various other celebrations. From picnics and neighborhood parties all the way to spending the entire day on the couch giving yourself a break, everyone has their own way of celebrating.
In West Asheville we are surrounded by gorgeous scenery (and hopefully cooperative weather!) lending to a great reason to stay home and celebrate.
Ideas for Fun Festivities in Your Own Backyard
- Host an outdoor moving night: Invite the neighbors over and hang a sheet over the garage to project a fun, family-friendly movie.
- Invite family and friends for a cookout: Utilize seasonal vegetables and fruits to cook up some fun Labor Day recipes everyone is sure to enjoy!
- Camp in the backyard: There is no rule saying you have to have a park pass to pitch a tent in your own yard – plus there is a flushing toilet!
- Give back by volunteering in the community: Organize your own roadside trash cleanup crew, help serve meals at the local food pantry, or write some nice cards to send to the local nursing home.
Things to Do in North Carolina Over the Long Weekend
If you are feeling antsy and want to get out of the house to celebrate, Asheville and the surrounding areas have plenty of events on deck to get everyone feeling festive.
Ideas for Fun Festivities in Your Own Hometown
- North Carolina Apple Festival // Friday, September 2 – Monday, September 5
- Located in downtown Hendersonville, this four-day festival features pancake breakfasts, car shows, gem and mineral shows, an 8k fun run, a bike tour, sidewalk sales, and even a friendly competition for the best apple recipe!
- Goombay Festival // Friday, September 2 – Sunday, September 4
- This unique festival has an eclectic lineup of national, regional, and local music acts, a market, and dance troupes. Treat yourself to a day of shopping from a diverse assortment of craft vendors at the Ethnic Market!
- Art on the Greene // Saturday, September 3 – Sunday, September 4
- This show takes place in the heart of the walkable village of Banner Elk allowing and encouraging you to take the day shopping in fun local boutiques, choosing from an impressive list of restaurants, and perusing the hand-made arts and crafts from select regional and national artisans.
- Canton Labor Day Festival // Sunday, September 4 – Monday, September 5
- Always a local favorite, this festival returns for the 114th time! Gather to enjoy some of your favorite breweries, an exciting music lineup, food, and local arts and crafts vendors. Everyone has been waiting for the return of this get together for two years! (Tickets sold here)
The team at GoPrime Mortgage in West Asheville wishes you a safe and happy Labor Day.
