In Canada, Labor Day is a public holiday that is observed on the first Monday in September. This holiday officially celebrates workers and the labour union movement, however, many Canadians only see it as the extra day off before the end of summer. The holiday originated from the workers' strikes in the 19th century when workers tried to establish maximum working hours.
Labour Day has its origins in the labour union movement, specifically the eight-hour day movement, which advocated eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest. The first such 'Labour Day' event was observed in 1872, but it wasn't until 1894 that it became an official holiday in Canada. Now, it's a part of a long weekend for most Canadians.
Apart from being a holiday that pays tribute to the working class, Labour Day is also considered the unofficial end of summer. Most students return to school the day after Labour Day. In several Canadian cities, Labour Day Classic matches are held which is a popular event, widely followed by Canadians. Despite its serious origin related to workers' rights and labor union movements, today it largely serves as a day of rest and leisure, marking the transition from summer vacation to the start of school and fall activities.