9 Fun Things to Do with Your Family on Labor Day Weekend
Try one of these fun memory-making things to do Labor Day weekend with family. Make lasting memories whether you have toddlers or teenagers!
Labor Day weekend is the perfect time to unwind and make memories with the whole family. Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, there are plenty of fun things to do that cater to kids of all ages. Here are some fantastic ideas to help you plan a memorable three-day weekend.
When I was growing up, Labor Day was one of my favorite days of the year. In addition to being the unofficial end of summer and a three-day weekend, it was a fun time to get together with our family.
My granny lived right outside a little town that hosted a parade, a small carnival, fireworks, and live music. The local fire department would put together a makeshift stage on the football field and concertgoers were treated to a free concert.
Since Granny lived right behind the high school and football field, my cousins and I got good seats to watch whoever was performing. Usually, it was a cover band, although Alan Jackson came once.
The Labor Day activities ended with a fireworks show that we watched from the front porch. The entire holiday weekend was full of fun activities and memories that I cherish today. The best thing about the whole weekend was spending time with my family.
I no longer live in that little town. The football field has been replaced with a new elementary school. But I fondly remember those times, and look forward to making those kinds of memories with my boys.
The Origins of Labor Day
Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday in September, honors the contributions and achievements of American workers. The holiday originated during the late 19th century labor movement, a time when workers sought better conditions, fair wages, and reasonable hours.
The first Labor Day parade took place on September 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by the Central Labor Union. In 1894, President Grover Cleveland made Labor Day a national holiday.
This holiday recognizes the importance of the American workforce and their role in building the nation. Today, Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer and serves as a time for families to come together and celebrate.
Make it a fun day and a fun weekend for you and your kids with these fun activities.
Related: Printable Labor Day Coloring and Word Search Bundle
9 Things to Do Labor Day Weekend with Family
1. Host a Backyard BBQ and Scavenger Hunt
Gather the family for a classic backyard BBQ. Grill some hot dogs, set up a picnic table, and enjoy the last days of summer. While you’re at it, organize a scavenger hunt for the kids. Create a list of items related to early fall, like colorful leaves, acorns, and small garden tools. This is a great Labor Day activity that keeps everyone entertained and active.
2. Visit a Water Park
Beat the heat by spending a day at a local water park. Many water parks across the United States offer special events for Labor Day, making it an exciting outing for family fun. From thrilling water slides to relaxing lazy rivers, and even splash pads for littles, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to make the most of the long weekend.
Many times water parks are only open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, so it’s a great way to wave goodbye to summer!
3. Explore a National Park, State Park or Local Park
Take advantage of the three-day weekend by exploring a national park. Early fall is a beautiful time to enjoy the great outdoors without the summer crowds. Pack a picnic, bring your hiking gear, and set out on an adventure.
Many national parks also have ranger-led programs and fun ways to learn about nature, making it an educational trip for the kids. Since you have an extra day on the weekend, it’s a great time to take a road trip.
If you’re not close enough to tour a national park, state parks are also a great option for family time. Since the weather is cooling down, it’s an excellent opportunity to go for a hike or try camping.
4. Attend a Local Fair or Festival
Many communities host fairs and festivals over Labor Day weekend. These events often feature live music, carnival rides, and delicious food. You’ll often find a variety of food trucks, so there’s something for everyone to love.
Check your local listings for special events happening near you. Attending a fair or festival is a fun Labor Day weekend tradition to spend time with the family. Not only can you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, but also support small businesses and local artists. As a bonus, these fairs often end with fireworks displays that the entire family will love!
5. Plan a Movie Marathon
Sometimes, staying in can be just as fun as going out. Plan a family movie marathon with everyone’s favorite films. Create a cozy setup with blankets and pillows, and don’t forget the popcorn.
Choose a mix of classics and new releases to keep everyone entertained. This relaxed activity is perfect for winding down after a busy day of outdoor fun. When my oldest son was little, my husband was on the volunteer fire department. His Labor Day was spent helping out at the annual celebration. I spent my days watching The Waltons’ marathon on TV. It was a fun time for this introvert!
Related: Kids Movie Review: The Lego Batman Movie for Kids
6. Go on a Family Bike Ride
Grab your bikes and hit the trails for a family bike ride. This activity is suitable for kids of all ages.
Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. Plan a route that includes a stop at a local park or ice cream shop to make it even more special.
7. Have a Craft Day
Get creative with a family craft day. Gather supplies like paints, markers, and recycled materials, and let the kids’ imaginations run wild. You can make decorations for the upcoming fall season or create personalized keepsakes. Crafting is a fun way to spend quality time together and encourages kids to express their creativity.
Related: 14 Cool Fall Crafts For Kids to Make and Share
8. Host a Pool Party
In South Carolina where I live, we can use our pool far into October. But in some parts of the country, the weather starts to majorly cool after Labor Day. Plus, with kids heading back to school, there’s often not a lot of time for swimming.
Make the most of this warm time of year to enjoy your pool one last time. Grab some floats, glow sticks, and pool noodles to make the time even more special. You’ll probably get a great discount since the season is over.
9. Catch a Car Show
I don’t know why, but Labor Day weekend is prime car show season. As the wife and mom of car enthusiasts, I’ve been to my fair share of shows over the years!
These fun events often have free admission, and are a lot of fun for kids and adults alike.
Make Cherished Memories with Your Family This Labor Day Weekend
Labor Day weekend is the perfect time to reconnect with your family and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors, attending special events, or simply spending time at home, these activities are sure to create lasting memories for everyone.
You might not realize it. now, but these little activities add up over time. Your kids will cherish these times together for years. Have a wonderful and fun-filled three-day weekend!
More Activities for the Whole Family
Looking for more ways to make memories with your family? Check out these other ideas for family fun:
