What is Labor Day, Why Do We Celebrate It? A Brief History of the Holiday

Happy Labor Day, folks! And while today is one filled with celebration – largely seen in you off from work barbecuing some burgers and hotdogs while sipping on that Bud Light Lime-A-Rita – would you believe that's not the real cause for celebration? There's actually some history behind it.

Which is exactly why we here at MStars News are asking: Just the what hell is Labor Day?

From a post from the U.S. Department of Labor Blog, Labor Day has changed heavily over time, but it started with the very reason to support "labor issues" – things such as shorter work hours and more unions. It was also a way to gather and rally both workers and strikers for important causes.

This was reportedly done through both parades and picnics. Which seems rather peaceful, no?

Despite the history, the Blog reports that the modern day vision of Labor Day started with a parade and picnic that took place in New York City on Sept. 5, 1882.

While initially believed to have been a possible fail, the day turned out to be a massive success, with over 10,000 marchers appearing in the parade. The very park in which the picnic and parade took place was donned in flags "of many nations" while laborers ate, drank beer and even watched fireworks in the evening.

Okay, so maybe you're not that far away from the historical event with your burgers, hotdogs and Lime-A-Ritas.

For more history behind Labor Day, head on over the U.S. Department of Labor Blog.

So, how are you celebrating your Labor Day 2015? By reading our post? If so, thank you. If not, well, we've got nothing for you.

Happy Labor Day!