When you think Labor Day, you probably think cookouts, one last beach hurrah, a long weekend getaway, summer officially ending, kids going back to school, etc. You probably don’t think about Labor Day as being a day dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers.  Or maybe you do. Whatever comes to mind, check out our ideas and tips on how to make the most of this last long summer weekend. — Billie Rama

What Is Labor Day?

People move through Pennsylvania Station for Labor Day getaways. (credit: Stephen Chernin/Getty Images)

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.

The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union. The Central Labor Union held its second Labor Day holiday just a year later, on September 5, 1883.

What’s Open and Closed On Labor Day?

Since Labor Day is a Federal holiday, schools, banks and post offices are closed. Most restaurants, stores and attractions (amusement parks, etc) are open.

Labor Day Events/Parades

Manhattan

(Getty Images)

See: 6 Things To Do In NYC Over Labor Day Weekend

Restaurant Week  This bi-annual NYC event was extended through Labor Day if you’re looking to enjoy discounts on NYC fine dining. Check out the 7 best deals and 4 worst deals in the city, or CBSNewYork’s all-inclusive guide to the best bets.

Labor Day Mass

St. Patrick’s Cathedral will hold the annual Labor Day Mass on Sept. 10, at 8:30 a.m. The church is located at 14 E 51st St, near 5th Ave.

The US Open  Check out our guide to the US Open, as well as a list of free and cheap US Open events, and the best dining in Queens if you’re looking to take in some live tennis action this holiday weekend. The US Open runs through Sept.11.

Where To Relax Enjoy those outdoor drinks while you still can. Check out our guides to the city’s best beer gardens, waterfront bars and restaurants, and outdoor eating.

Brooklyn

The West Indian American Day Carnival
wiadca.com/

The 44th Annual “Mother of All Caribbean Festivals” takes place on Labor Day and begins at 11 a.m. at Eastern Parkway & Schnectady Ave. The Carnival celebration will feature costume bands, floats, masqueraders and other fun, family-friendly events.

Long Island

Shinnecock Pow Wow

(credit: shinnecocknation.com)

631-283-6143
shinnecocknation.com

The 65th Annual Shinnecock Pow Wow on Southampton begins Friday Sept. 2 at 3 p.m., and events continue throughout the holiday weekend. The gathering of Native Americans takes place, rain or shine, on the Shinnecock Reservation Grounds. There will be a Pow Wow celebration featuring music and dance performances.

Heading To The Beach?

(credit: JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images)

You don’t have to go far to soak in the sun, ride some waves and stick your feet in the sand. New York City has a ton if free beaches, including Brighton Beach and Coney Island in Brooklyn, and Rockaway Beach in Queens.

For more information on beach hours, directions, parking, food, etc, check out:

CBS New York’s Guide to Free Beaches

Long Island Beaches
Long Island has some of the best beaches in the world. From Sag Harbor and Montauk, to East and South Hampton, there are plenty of spots to have one last summer blast!  For in-depth information on what to do Labor Day Weekend whether it’s at the beach, a local vineyard, museum, etc.

• Check Out CBS New York’s Getaway Guide to the Hamptons
• CBS New York’s Guide to Fire Island
• CBS New York’s Guide to Local Vineyards

The Jersey Shore

Seaside Heights, N.J. (credit: (credit: Al Bello/Getty Images)

•  CBS New York’s Guide To The Jersey Shore
• The Jersey Shore’s Top 5 Restaurants

Hey, where else can you perfect a tan and possibly run into ‘Snooki’ and the gang? New Jersey boast some of the most beautiful beaches around. If you’re heading to the Shore this Labor Day Weekend, you’ll find plenty of seaside activities, boardwalks complete with rides and old school games like Skeeball, and an endless supply of saltwater taffy – a local specialty.

• Enjoy a Free Fireworks Show to kick off Labor Day Weekend, Friday, Sept 2 at 10 p.m.  It’s also Wildwood restaurant week! Wine and dine in some of Wildwoods finest restaurants.
• Click here for more Wildwoods events this Labor Day Weekend.
• And there’s always the Boardwalk and Casinos in Atlantic City. Check Out:
  CBS New York’s Guide to Casinos

What About Connecticut?

(credit: BILL GRANT/AFP/Getty Images)

If you’re in the mood to head to the Nutmeg State this holiday weekend, the Connecticut Coast offers a variety for the entire family.If you like casinos, take in a show or try your luck at the slot machines at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville or nearby Foxwoods in Mashantucket.

• CBSNewYork’s Guide To The Connecticut Coast
• Connecticut’s Best Lobster Rolls

If you’d like to take in some history, head to Olde Mistick Village and Mystic Seaport.

Heading To The Casino?

(credit: William Thomas Cain/Getty Images)

Mohegan Sun
1 Mohegan Sun Boulevard, Uncasville, CT
(about 130 miles northeast of New York City)
860.862.8000
mohegansun.com

Foxwoods Resort Casino
350 Trolley Line Blvd.
Mashantucket, CT 06338
(about 140 miles northeast of New York City)
800.369.9663
foxwoods.com