2009 Labor Day Celebrations in the Midwest
Parades, Festivals and Other Events on Monday, September 7, 2009
Aug 27, 2009
Labor Day is a federal holiday celebrated throughout the United States. It is celebrated the first Monday in September, making it an ideal time for fun outdoor events such as parades, races and festivals.
Labor Day Parades
One of the most common Labor Day celebrations is that of the holiday parade. Various communities throughout the Midwest will host a parade to commemorate the day.
- Detroit is known for its strong labor unions specifically that of the United Auto Workers (UAW). Consequently, the city will mark Labor Day with a downtown parade on Monday morning.
- Downtown St. Louis will be the venue for its community parade. Beginning at 9 a.m. on Labor Day, civic leaders, union representatives and others will line up for the annual Labor Day parade.
- Various smaller cities throughout the Midwest are also hosting parades, i.e. Mansfield, OH, Moline, IL, Naperville, IL and Lowell, IN.
Labor Day Festivals
Many communities opt to celebrate Labor Day with a community festival. Some of these festivals center around the Labor Day theme, while others take another direction such as that of a music festival. No matter the theme, these festivals aid many in having both an enjoyable and memorable holiday.
- Detroit International Jazz Festival—Over the last 30 years jazz lovers from all over the world have flocked to Detroit during the Labor Day weekend for great music, fellowship and fun. This year the event will begin on Friday, September 4 and continue through Labor Day.
- The Milwaukee Rally—Hosted by Harley Davidson, the city of Milwaukee will be the venue for a large motorcycle festival over Labor Day weekend. The event will include musical entertainment, dancing, shows and vendors.
- Casey Annual Popcorn Festival in Southeastern Illinois—This annual event offers fun for the entire family. Centered around the theme of popcorn, festival events include a carnival, arts and crafts show, musical entertainment, car show and lots and lots of food (especially popcorn).
- Bluegrass Music Festival in Missouri—Central Missouri will celebrate Labor Day with a Bluegrass Music Festival at Carol's Memorial Music Park in Dixon Missouri. The event will begin on Wednesday September 2 with a fish fry, and will continue through Sunday, September 6.
Labor Day Sporting Events and Races
Labor Day has also become a popular time for the hosting of marathons, races and other outdoor sporting events. Some of these events include:
- The Mackinaw Bridge Run—Also known as the Governor's Bridge Run, the Governor of Michigan and many other Michiganders will meet to walk or run across the Mackinac Bridge (about 5 miles) on Labor Day. This is an annual event and a tradition for many individuals and families.
- THF Realty Labor Day Bicycle Race—Thursday, September 3 through Labor Day bikers will race through the streets of St. Louis. Both riders and spectators are welcome.
- 10K or 30K Ride/Run—This event offers a combination of bike riding, running and walking. The race will be held in Milford, MI (near Detroit).
Because the weather changes quickly in the Midwest, it is important to check the local weather forecast to ensure that one is dressed properly for the occasion.
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