Crowds of people flock to the Coney Island beach and boardwalk on a hot summer weekend.
Photograph: By lazyllama / Shutterstock

Labor Day 2026 in NYC guide: things to do, parades and getaways

Make the most of Labor Day NYC 2026 with our guide to the best parties including beaches and barbecues.
Rachel Askinasi
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Labor Day is the last hurrah of summer, so make it count! It's an annual workers’ holiday on the first Monday in September dating back to 1882. It's also the unofficial farewell to summer.

New York City has some incredible beaches you can visit during your three-day weekend, as well as some stunning outdoor restaurants to eat at and tons of events to hit up. And if you’re feeling the need for one last getaway from the city before fall begins, take a look at our excellent list of day trips from NYC. Even if you don't have a car, you can still enjoy a getaway via public transit.

Make this a Labor Day weekend worth remembering!

RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from NYC

When is Labor Day?

Labor Day is on Monday, September 7, 2026.

What's the weather forecast?

At this point, Saturday, Sunday and Monday look like picture-perfect days with temperatures in the high 70s and plenty of sunshine. Bring the sunscreen if you're getting outside. 

When is the Labor Day Parade?

It should take you an extra morning to recover from your three-day party weekend, by which time you can actually honor the national holiday at this joyous parade held on Tuesday, September 8 at 4:30pm. The AFL-CIO hosts NYC's annual Labor Day Parade.

Where is the Labor Day Parade?

It steps off from on Liberty Street between Broadway and Church Street and is slated to run until 7pm.

Things to do for Labor Day in NYC

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