Fun For Everyone
As Labor Day approaches, Americans are gearing up for fireworks, barbecues, and gatherings with family and friends to celebrate the holiday. Maybe some of you are on the road for Labor Day, and maybe others are staying close to home. Regardless of how you celebrate, Labor Day is a holiday weekend to enjoy. Here are the best Labor Day celebrations in every state.
Alabama's Gulf State Park
If the outdoors are your thing and you live in Alabama, visiting Gulf State Park is a must! There are 900 acres of fishing lakes, many miles of hiking and biking trails, opportunities for kayaking, and a tennis court. There's also an interpretive nature center, for those who love learning more about the natural world.
Alaska's Denali National Park
Denali in September is the place to be, and if you love autumnal mountain views, Denali National Park has them on-tap. While providing a rugged hiking terrain, an overnight camp may see you enjoy a Northern Lights show, which are still plentiful despite the time of year. Denali's Backcountry Lodge or Skyline Lodge are the perfect rustic accommodations to start your Alaskan Labor Day adventures from.
Paxson Woelber, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Enjoy The Los Angeles Labor Day Parade
Los Angeles Labor Day Parade is the perfect place to be in L.A. The vibes are pretty incredible—fantastically colorful floats, community group activities, marching bands, and food trucks provide a family-friendly atmosphere that's unmatched almost anywhere else in California on Labor Day.
Prayitno, CC BY 2.0 Wikimedia Commons
Relax At Hot Springs National Park In Arkansas
If you plan to just chill out this Labor Day (and we can't say we blame you), Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas is calling you, so gather up a group of friends or go with family. The town of Hot Springs is the hometown of former President Bill Clinton and has a water park centered around the hot springs, which is especially fun for the young ones. Take your time off seriously at Hot Springs National Park this long weekend.
Live Music Aplenty In Denver
"She'd trade Colorado if he'd take her with him..." Not if she lived in Denver this Labor Day weekend, she wouldn't. While Zac Brown Band won't be playing their wintry melody, Dierks Bentley, Gregory Alan Isakov, and REZZ are gracing the stage at Red Rocks this weekend. But if a more melodic tune is your thing, then Hozier is playing at Fiddler's Green. Want fantastic live music this Labor Day weekend? Go to Denver.
Ozskier, CC-BY-SA-3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Woodstock, Connecticut's Agricultural Fair
If the farm is your thing, join head over to Connecticut's largest agricultural fair at Woodstock, featuring horse-and-buggy-rides, stage shows, kid's contests, Midway rides, and more. Get out with the family on the farm at Woodstock's Agricultural Fair from August 30 to September 2.
Relax At Beautiful Bethany Beach
If you're looking to head for the beach this Labor Day weekend, then choose Delaware's Bethany Beach. Live entertainment will grace the stage at the Bethany Beach Boardwalk, along with Labor Day sales and specials from the various gift shops and restaurants that dot the boardwalk. Enjoy a relaxing stroll with the family along the Bethany Beach Boardwalk, or simply head straight for the beach and pull up a chair.
Defense Visual Information Distribution Service, Picryl
Feeling Sleepy In Florida?
Floridians will argue in the comments about where the best place to relax is on Labor Day weekend. We'll say it's the sleepy, serene, Sanibel Island. Dreamy white sand beach, crystalline blue water—if beach relaxation is your thing in Florida this Labor Day, then Sanibel Island's 40 miles of beach should be your destination.
North Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains
Do you think that this is where John Denver spent his Labor Day weekends? Even if the great man didn't, you certainly should! Explore the Chattahoochee National Forest's 300+ miles of hiking trails, or if you love to fish, there's 100 miles of trout streams to explore in the 106,000 acres of the Chattahoochee National Forest.
ChattOconeeNF, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Go Snorkeling In Maui
The usually-scorching temperatures on the island of Maui drop to a pleasant 80℉ in September, but the water remains wonderfully warm. It's the perfect opportunity for a Hawaiian Labor Day snorkel. If you're planning a trip to Hawaii for the first time, this is simply a must-see and must-do.
BASE Jumping At Twin Falls
The city of Twin Falls, Idaho has made sure that BASE jumping is legal off it's Perrine Bridge over Snake River Canyon. If you're a thrill-seeker anywhere near Twin Falls, head to Perrine Bridge for an unforgettable Labor Day BASE jump.
Chris McNaught, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Pumpkin Patches In Arthur, Illinois
While pumpkin patches are a dime-a-dozen as we approach spooky season, this one at 200 Acres Farm (guess how big the farm is) is perfect for the whole family. You can select your perfect pumpkin or squash from their vast selection, take part in the corn maze, or have a visit with the animals at 200 Acres.
The Need For Speed In Indianapolis
If Indy Racing is your sport, why not take the opportunity to head for Indianapolis, Indiana (when the hotel prices are lower than other times of the year) and pay a visit to the Indianapolis Speedway Museum?
Jeffrey Hayes, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Experience History At The Renaissance Faire
For those looking to dive into some history this Labor Day weekend in Iowa, the capital city Des Moines is hosting it's annual Renaissance Faire—with Celtic music, dancing, and cultural activities including a Highland Games. While dressing up like you're from the Renaissance isn't required, it is more than welcome.
Love Baseball? Get Tickets For The KC Royals
What better way to celebrate Labor Day than cheering on the Kansas City Royals? Baseball lovers in Kansas City this weekend are treated to a Labor Day kick-off of a three-game series for the KC Royals against the Cleveland Guardians.
Keith Allison, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Feelin' Thrifty? Visit Louisville This Labor Day Weekend
If you've been given the gift of thrift, visit Louisville, Kentucky this Labor Day weekend and attend the Kentucky Flea Market Labor Day Spectacular—a farmer's market to rival all others. If you've been searching for a deal, or perhaps are just browsing, there's no better way to save money and still get what you want in the US this weekend than at the Kentucky Flea Market Labor Day Spectacular.
InSapphoWeTrust, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Driving On An Empty Stomach? Hit The Cajun Seafood Trail
If you should find yourself driving through Cajun Country in Louisiana this weekend, drive the Cajun Bayou and discover the last remnants of seafood bliss as summer ends. With 18 stops to make, you better hit the road early and skip out on desserts as you make your way through this gauntlet of deliciousness. The Cajun Seafood Trail is the ultimate weekend food experience in Louisiana.
hedrives, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Take A Road Trip To Portland, Maine
Whether you're driving across the Canadian border or coming in from another part of the state, a drive to beautiful Portland, ME, is the perfect way to spend Labor Day in the North East. Take a trolley tour, enjoy live music, or go on a boat cruise along the coast. Portland has plenty to offer this Labor Day weekend.
Explore Havre-De-Grace, Maryland
Havre-de-Grace in Maryland is a charming community of around 15,000, and it's just perfect for visiting this time of year. Not too hot, not too cold—just right. Home to the Havre-de-Grace Maritime Museum and a Saturday morning farmer's market, HDG is the perfect Labor Day mid-Atlantic escape.
Have A Whale Of A Time In Boston, Massachusetts
You'll have to excuse the pun, but September long weekend is one of the best times to go whale-watching with Boston Harbor City Cruises. Rather than bouncing around in a Zodiac boat, these city cruises offer a catamaran-style vessel cruise. Other boat cruises include a historical sight-seeing tour, a sunset cruise, or a speedboat ride.
Fletcher6, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Feel Groovy In Detroit, Michigan
Detroit's Jazz Festival takes place over the Labor Day long weekend and features talented local and national jazz musicians. Taking place at Hart Plaza and Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit, there's no better place to be if you love feelin' groovy on Labor Day.
Bring The Kayaks To Minnesota
If you love participating in watersports like kayaking or canoeing over a Labor Day weekend, head for Minnesota's stunning Voyageurs National Park. Harbor the spirit of those who came before you as voyageurs canoeing along the waterways of four major lakes and 26 minor lakes in the park itself. Or, take your adventure on solid ground with over 27 miles of hiking trails.
National Park Service Digital Image Archives, Wikimedia Commons
Ocean Springs Eternal On Mississippi's Gulf Coast
Pay a visit to Ocean Springs on Mississippi's Gulf Coast if you love artwork. While you're there, check out Shearwater Pottery or the Walter Anderson Museum of Art.
Georgianotthestate, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Join A Tradition At Lake Of The Ozarks
Join in the long-established tradition of fireworks over the Lake of the Ozarks. The lake itself offers 1,100 miles of shoreline to enjoy, so bring your boat, kayak or canoe and paddle in the lake, or pull up the car and hike in. You can hang out at the beach, or take a break from the crowds and go horseback riding before the fireworks display.
Take A Scenic Drive In Montana
Drive the Beartooth Highway or pay a visit to Glacier National Park and their Going-To-The-Sun Road, a 49-mile drive that you can take your time with. Montana is beautiful any time of year, but as the leaf colors turn from green to oranges, yellows, and reds, you'll find yourself in a fall paradise.
Dave Sizer, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Take The Kids To The Lancaster Fair In Lancaster
The Lancaster Fair is a legendary attraction that comes to Lancaster, New Hampshire annually, featuring live music, big rig truck pulls, animal demonstrations, and Midway rides. It's not to be missed if you have younger children—even protesting teenagers will likely enjoy themselves.
Head For Air Fest In Cape May
The airshow at Cape May, New Jersey, is another annual tradition that makes Labor Day in New Jersey special. Air Fest features 26 historic aircraft including fighter jets like the F-14 Tomcat, the F-16 Fighting Falcon, and other USAF aircraft of the past. There's also a history lesson on Naval Air Station Wildwood and a look inside Historic Hangar #1. If you love planes, then Air Fest is the place to spend your Labor Day weekend in New Jersey.
Kevin Rutherford, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Ride A Hot Air Balloon In Taos Ski Valley
The Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico is the perfect escape for the lingering late summer heat. Get up high in a hot air balloon ride, going up to 10 mph at altitudes between 500 and 4,000ft! You'll have an amazing view of the Taos Ski Valley and the surrounding areas, as well as an unforgettable Labor Day experience.
PBarn424, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Go On A Labor Day Weekend Cruise In New York City
While NYC is generally a busy hub at any time of year, you can escape the throngs of Labor Day crowds by taking a river cruise complete with fine dining, live music, and an amazing view of the New York City skyline. If you're the romantic type, it's the perfect cap off for Labor Day. You can also experience the fireworks display that ends the weekend in style.
Take A Quiet Retreat To The Outer Banks
North Carolinians love the Outer Banks for it's miles of undeveloped, tranquil beaches. The Outer Banks are the perfect place to escape to for Labor Day weekend. Explore the history of the country at the first English colony at Roanoke, see where the Wright Brothers took flight at Kittyhawk, or explore the beauty and architectural wonder that is Cape Hatteras.
Take A Trip Back Through Time In Medora, North Dakota
North Dakota's Medora is like stepping back into the Wild West. There are stagecoach rides offered downtown and an open-air amphitheater, playing the famous Medora Musical. If you want to take a day-trip to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Medora is a great place to stay while you explore the rugged landscape of the area.
Take In The Western-Southern River Fest In Cincinnati
The Western-Southern River Fest in Cincinnati, Ohio is not to be missed on Labor Day weekend. There's live music and food at Sawyer Point and Yeatman's Cove. There's also a synchronized fireworks display on both sides of the Ohio River at the end of the night—not to be missed!
Take The Family For A Water Adventure In Tulsa
If your family loves water parks, there's no better way to spend the last weekend before school starts than at Safari Joe's H20 Water & Adventure Park. Complete with a lazy river, splash pads, slides, and more, there's fun for the whole family at Tulsa's best water-themed fun park.
Go Tubing Down The Deschutes River In Bend, Oregon
There's perhaps no better way to relax in Bend, Oregon than to hop on an inflated tube and float down the Deschutes River than runs straight through town. For those who don't like the thought of floating downriver, Bend offers fantastic mountain bike trails and hiking and rock climbing opportunities.
Experience Stroudfest In Poconos, Pennsylvania
There's a full Labor Day weekend of activities lined up for Stroudfest in Poconos, Pennsylvania. The Poconos region encompasses 2,400 miles of land with numerous small (and large) towns to explore. The town of Stroudsberg, Pennsylvania clears out its main street for the Saturday morning festivities of Stroudfest that include live music, retail, craft and food vendors, and easy access to the Monroe Farmer's Market. Immerse yourself in 'peak' Poconos this Labor Day weekend at Stroudfest.
See Boat Racing In Newport, Rhode Island
If you love boat racing, then Newport, Rhode Island, is the place to be for Labor Day. There'll be three races over the weekend, including the Classic Yacht Regatta and the Race-Around-The-Island taking place off Conanicut Island, a tradition since 1927. You can either view the races from land or aboard a Coastal Queen Cruise from Jamestown or Newport.
Take In Not One, But Two Fireworks Displays In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Fireworks displays are common in Myrtle Beach for year-round residents, but visitors on Labor Day can enjoy two displays—the first one on Saturday, August 31 at Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach. Complete with food for much of the day beforehand, you can spend all weekend at Myrtle Beach and be treated to a spectacular finale.
Take A City Tour Through Sioux Falls, South Dakota
City tours in Sioux Falls, South Dakota are plentiful this Labor Day weekend and can be adapted to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a geological tour like the Rock and Roll Through Sioux Falls, exploring the geological history of the area, or a self-guided Scavenger Hunt Tour—perfect for those with young and curious kids—there's a tour you're guaranteed to love.
w_lemay, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Enjoy A Family-Friendly Weekend At Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Have a family-friendly day at Pigeon Forge in Tennessee. Check out the Hollywood Wax Museum, where some of your favorite Hollywood stars are forever immortalized in wax. Then, take a trip to Dollywood—Dolly Parton's own theme park. There's food and live music in Pigeon Forge as well, giving you a fun-filled family experience this Labor Day.
Have A Spooky Adventure In Austin, Texas
While 'spooky season' isn't quite here yet, Austin's Murder Walk is an infamous evening walking tour that takes you back to when America's first serial killer stalked the streets of Austin. This guided tour, lasting about two hours, takes true crime fans through the murder scenes, as well as other historic Austin sites.
Enjoy A Scenic Lift Ride & Barbecue At Sundance Mountain Resort
A Labor Day barbecue is an American tradition—and there's no better place to observe this tradition than at Sundance Mountain Resort in Sundance, Utah. There's a broad menu of delights, from smoked baby back ribs to honey chipotle chicken. Enjoy your barbecue meal while taking a ski lift up Sundance Mountain.
Kurman Communications LL, Flickr
Relax With A Round Of Golf At Stratton Mountain, Vermont
Stratton Mountain Resort in Vermont offers an annual charity golf tournament to celebrate Labor Day. Dust off those clubs and take a swing at this fun charity event. Bring a few friends and donate to the Stratton Foundation, a local children's charity in southern Vermont.
Get In Touch With Your Roots At The Scottish Games In The Plains, Virginia
If you have Scottish roots, take the time this Labor Day weekend to get in touch with them and enjoy the entertainment of the 50th annual Scottish Games that take place in The Plains, Virginia. Enjoy bagpipes, Scottish food, caber tossing and a brand-new gin tasting tent.
Steve, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Take In The Evergreen State Fair In Seattle, Washington
The Evergreen State Fair is a tradition in Seattle that began in 1949. It runs from August 22 to September 2 and promises fantastic live music, great food, shopping opportunities from local vendors, and of course, the fair itself. The fair is home to dozens of rides suitable for all ages, contests, and competitive exhibits. The Evergreen State Fair is one of the most incredible Labor Day experiences in the west.
Mark, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Three Festivals, One Weekend In Jane Lew, West Virginia
West Virginians in Jane Lew really go all-out for Labor Day weekend, with three festivals over a three-day period. It all kicks off with the 45th Annual Italian Heritage Festival, where a celebration of all things Italian is the order of the day. That's followed by the 44th Annual Jane Lew Fireman's Arts and Crafts Festival and the Jackson's Mill Jubilee, a celebration of Stonewall Jackson featuring the historic part of the mill being open to the public.
Sheila Fitzgerald, Shutterstock
Take In A Free IndyCar Race In Milwaukee, Wisconsin
For the first time since 2015, IndyCar racing has returned to the Wisconsin State Fair this weekend, with a free fan zone featuring autographs, live music, and great food. While tickets are free, the gates only open at 1:30 pm on August 30 and 10 am on August 31 and September 1.
Royalbroil, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Explore The Frontier At The American Frontier Music & Arts Festival In Afton, Wyoming
Explore America's ranching culture and the history of the frontier at the American Frontier Music and Arts Festival in Afton, Wyoming. This celebration of Western heritage takes place at the Kodiak Mountain Resort annually and is one of the most vibrant and interesting places to spend Labor Day in Wyoming.
Where are you headed this Labor Day Weekend? Were any of these festivals on your list? Let us know in the comments!
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