Ten things you always wanted to know about Labor Day

10. The first Labor Day

America's first Labor Day parade took place in New York City on 5 September 1882, organized by the Central Labor Union.

After marching from City Hall, past reviewing stands in Union Square, and then uptown to 42nd Street, the workers and their families gathered in Wendel's Elm Park for a picnic, concert, and speeches.

The second Labor Day (in 1883) was also held on 5 September (a Wednesday). It was not until 1884 that the first Monday of September became the standard day for the holiday. The idea spread with the growth of labor organizations, and by 1885 Labor Day was celebrated in many industrial centers of the country.