Labour Day in Canada [2025]: Origins & How to Celebrate

Labour Day 2025 in Canada lands on Monday, September 1st. Always on the first Monday of September, Labour Day is the unofficial book-end to summer, and is celebrated on the same day in both Canada and the United States.

Fun fact: More than 100 countries around the world celebrate their own version of Labour Day, or International Workers’ Day, which is celebrated in May.

In this guide, we’ll cover the history of the holiday, how it’s generally celebrated in Canada, and some events taking place across the country.

Why Do We Celebrate Labour Day in Canada?

Labour Day honours the achievements of Canadian workers and the labour movement’s role in shaping safer workplaces, the weekend, and public holidays.

History of Labour Day Canada

In 1872, Canada’s first national labour movement was built. Officially deemed the Nine-Hour Movement because of the demand for a shorter, nine-hour workday (the standard was closer to 12 hours). The movement grew, and supported the eventual establishment of the Canadian Labour Union.

Throughout 1872 and the following years, strikes and marches grew in popularity, and on July 23rd, 1894, Labour Day was officially established as a statutory holiday. Peter J. Maguire, an American labour leader, is credited with helping to formalize the holiday.

Ever since, it’s been celebrated on the first Monday in September as an emblem of workers’ rights and solidarity.

Is Labour Day the Same in Canada and the US?

Labour Day is celebrated on the same day in both Canada and the United States, and generally recognizes the same meaning. However, the unique history of each country’s labour and worker’s rights movements do vary.

How to Celebrate Labour Day in Canada

Like many holidays in Canada, people tend to celebrate Labour Day with parades, outdoor activities, and time spent with family and friends. Since this holiday takes place at the end of summer, many activities especially emphasize the outdoors, especially if the weather happens to be warm.

Labour Day Events in Toronto

Labour Day Parade by Toronto & York Region Labour Council

• Takes place on September 1st, starting 11am at the Canadian National Exhibition gates and marching along Queen Street from University Avenue.

• The theme of the 2025 parade is “A Canada for Workers: Made Here, Paid Here.”

Labour Day Events in Vancouver

The PNE Fair

• September 1st marks the last day of Vancouver’s Pacific National Exhibition Fair as well as the final edition of Summer Nights Concerts.

Did you know: The common fashion expression, “No white after Labour Day,” originated in the 1800s. It’s an unofficial rule to stop wearing white, which is likely because Labour Day marks the end of summer, and white was historically worn to stay cool.