Amelia Island Labor Day Celebrations
The first Monday of every September brings opportunity for Labor Day celebrations. Whether you honor the holiday with a three-day trip or a weekend BBQ, we hope you enjoy the extra time to its fullest. Are you local to Amelia Island? Check out our round up of fun Amelia Island Labor Day Celebrations below.
Wherever you hail from, let’s take a moment to recognize the importance of Labor Day. This day of fun and relaxation originated as a day to honor the American worker and fight for improved labor conditions. Let’s explore the history of the holiday and the best ways to celebrate it present day.
History of Labor Day
At the height of the Industrial Revolution in the United States, Americans worked an average of 12-hour days seven days a week. Conditions in the mills, factories and mines they employed were often unsafe and unsanitary. These long hours and terrible work environments often left workers with just enough pay to survive.
As the manufacturing industry grew, unions became more active and vocal. They organized strikes and rallies to protest poor conditions and unfit pay. Eventually, on September 5th 1882, ten thousand workers in New York City marched from City Hall to Union Square to take a stand. This act goes down in U.S. history as the first ever Labor Day parade.
In 1887, Oregon was the first state to recognize Labor Day as an official holiday. However, it wouldn’t be until 12 years after the initial march that Congress made Labor Day an official legal holiday on June 28th, 1894.
Labor Day Celebrations Today
After nationwide efforts, we are now able to enjoy an eight-hour workday, shorter work week, and reasonable pay. These alterations were made to support and appreciate the American worker. Also, business owners and politicians hope additional American leisure time can boost spending and stimulate the economy. If you find yourself out and about this holiday weekend, be sure to support local business!
Family Friendly Labor Day Fun on Amelia Island
Participate in the Doug Stuber Memorial Turtle Trot 5K
Want to start off your Labor Day celebrations with a good old-fashioned foot race? If so, the Turtle Trot 5k is for you. This event begins at 7:30 am. You can find fellow racers at the south side of Main Beach next to the Sandbar Restaurant. Doug Stuber was a huge advocate for turtle preservation and proceeds for the race will be donated to the Amelia Island Sea Turtle Watch and the Amelia Island Runners.
Take A Sunset Tour
Looking to sit back and relax after a fun-filled day? Amelia River cruises offer a family-friendly boat ride providing beautiful sights and neat info about the area in an hour-long sail down the Amelia River.
Visit Fort Clinch State Park
Fort Clinch State Park’s 1,400-acres is known as a haven for shark tooth hunters, fishermen, and nature enthusiasts. If you are looking to spend a little extra time here, go ahead and reserve a campsite! The park offers both riverside and beach side camping full of modern-day amenities such as heated showers, laundry, potable water, and more!
Stroll Through Downtown
From the pirate playground to the quaint shops, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy while meandering through Downtown Amelia Island. For the out-of-towners, here are some insider deals on lodging for your fun-filled weekend!
Visit Timoti’s Seafood Shak
Every adventure requires proper fuel. Head down to Timotis Seafood Shak for a fresh and casual bite to eat. Offering delicious tacos, hand-helds, baskets, and more. Let the whole family fill up on fresh eats before exploring all Amelia Island has to offer!
