Fun Labor Day Ideas

Each year, we celebrate Labor Day on the first Monday of September. Established as a federal holiday in 1894, Labor Day recognizes the contributions and achievements that American workers have made in the United States. Here are some fun ways to celebrate Labor Day in the Chicago Southland this year:

Learn about work, ‘then, now and tomorrow’

Join the Historic Pullman Foundation for a free family-friendly virtual event. Attendees can learn about the local labor strike at the Pullman Palace Car Company and how it grew to a national boycott. In fact, shortly after the boycott ended, Labor Day became a nationally celebrated holiday! Enjoy exhibits and music while celebrating the contributions of America’s workforce, all virtually! “Our Work: Then, Now & Tomorrow” begins at 1:30 PM on Labor Day. Visit the event’s Facebook page for more information.

Take a hike (or walk or bike ride)!

Enjoy the last few days of summer by exploring some of the 40,000+ acres of forestry in the Chicago Southland, including the grounds of Sand Ridge Nature Center in South Holland. Sand Ridge Nature Center’s trails and grounds will be open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Labor Day. Enjoy 3.75 miles of self-guiding hiking trails through diverse habitats. For even more trails to explore, check out the brand-new Chicago Southland Trails App!

Come face-to-face with dinosaurs

Dinosaurs have arrived at Brookfield Zoo! Grab the whole family and check out the special Dinos Everywhere exhibit, featuring over 40 animatronic dinosaurs that are bigger and badder than ever before. Located throughout the park, visitors can come face-to-face with some of the largest animals that have ever lived, including the Argentinosaurus, who stretched over 100 feet in length and weighed up to 110 tons! Pre-timed, advanced tickets are required for zoo entrance. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to CZS.org.

Skip the cooking

There are hundreds of restaurants located throughout the Chicago Southland. Gather a few friends and visit one this Labor Day. Many establishments will be offering Labor Day food and drink specials, so be sure to check out the menus ahead of time! Please note that due to current COVID-19 guidelines, restaurants in Will County are not open for indoor dining or bar service. As always, we encourage calling ahead to verify dining availability. For Chicago Southland restaurant listings, go to VisitChicagoSouthland.com/Dining.

Sit back and enjoy the ride

Taking a Labor Day trip? From now until September 30, Chicagoland Coach Lines is offering a special discount. Take 15% off your trip request on any vehicle. Chicagoland Coach Lines can transfer passengers across town or coast-to-coast. Their diverse charter bus fleet is sure to accommodate any group, and safety is always their #1 priority. For more information or to see what services are available, go to ChicagolandCoachLines.com.

Have a fun and safe Labor Day weekend!