Labor Day is unique among our national holidays in that it does not celebrate a single individual, a battle, or a religious occasion. It is dedicated to honoring the American worker. While to many it is just a three-day weekend, it is a day to celebrate the contributions to our society made by the hard work and commitment of everyday American workers. The first Labor Day was celebrated on September 5, 1882, and gradually, states began to officially adopt the holiday throughout the following decade. God has richly blessed our nation with a strong and vital labor force, and it is to Him and to them--the laborers of our nation--that we owe our gratitude for the prosperity and benefits we enjoy. unknown sources