Don’t forget Did you know that Labor Day dates back to 1882? The holiday is attributed to the 19th century organized labor movement and grew from city and state celebrations to a federal holiday in a short span of 12 years. New York City is credited as the birthplace of the Labor Day holiday. In September 1882, New York City labor unions held a parade as a sign of unity for all unions and to celebrate their members. More than 20,000 people