The prosperity of America cannot be exemplified enough through the nationwide holiday of Labor Day. Labor Day has been observed since the days of Samuel Gompers who led the American Federation of Labor, seeking to celebrate the strength of public labor and respect for the nation’s hard workers. Labor Day typically falls in the first Monday of September, and Wisconsin doesn’t fall short in joining the festivities!
Events range from parades down historical Wisconsin streets, fairs, pony rides, potlucks, picnics, and music events. Street parades are a long-standing tradition of many small towns in Wisconsin, and art and crafts fairs abound as the weather cools off for fall and more people frolic outside to socialize and mingle. Wisconsin in September is a beautiful time for the fall colors to introduce themselves, and Labor Day is often the kickoff event for a Wisconsin autumn season.
Local shopping centers, church groups, and sports teams organize a variety of activities and highlights throughout labor day weekend; attractions for all ages proliferate throughout Wisconsin and can be enjoyed over two to three-day stretches. Picnics at the local park, live music, and sidewalk sales: it’s a great way to end the scorching summer and embrace fall in Wisconsin!
Saturday September 2 through September 4:
Labor Day Arts & Crafts Show
Events in Minocqua sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce include an arts and crafts fair, live music, food, and kids gams at Torpy Park. Contact (715) 356-5266 for more information.
Labor Day Celebration
One of the largest parades and events takes place at the Merrill Fairgrounds in Lincoln County. Take part in the Habitat for Humanity Acution, a tractor pull, the classic car show, and flea market. Call (877) 907-2757 for details.
Labor Day Art and Craft Fair
The Sacred Heart School of Theology near Milwaukee hosts an annual art and craft fair on Sunday, September 3 from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Browse the talents and showcases of local artists and artisans before setting off for more festivities. Call (414) 425-7208.
Labor Fest
Janesville promises festivals galore with a three-day celebration of clowns, mud volleyball, live music, and the largest Labor Day Parade in the Midwest. Call (608) 365-5182 and be sure to find out the best locations for parking and picnicking for this popular Labor Day venue.
Dirt Devils Labor Day Weekend ATV Rally
Don’t miss out on fun, food, music, and off-road challenges at the Dirt Devils ATV Rally at the Flambeau Resort in Park Falls. Call (800) 762-2709 for details. The rally runs from September 1 through Labor Day Monday, and includes over 200 miles of trails for the racer in your family! The popular event is sponsored by the Fifield Dirt Devils and WATVA.
Holy Ghost Parish Labor Day Picnic
There’s nothing like a full-fledged picnic to take in the alst days of summer. The Holy Ghost Parish includes games, bingo, and a full picnic luncheon (with homemade pies for dessert!) in Dickeyville, Grant County. Call (608) 568-7790 for details.
Labor Day Weekend Celebration
Benton, Lafayette offers a range of street parades, pony rides, a duck race, and even fireworks downtown. Also enjoy the annual pasty lunch with tours to the Swindler’s Ridge Museum and the historical School House. Call (608) 776-8080 for details.
Redgranite Labor Days Festival
Sporting events, a craft fair, and live music in the park are plentiful throughout the weekend at Willow Creek Park in Waushara County. You can look forward to historical reenactments and a horseshoe tournament as part of the festivities. Call (920) 566-4015 for more information.
Labor Day Sidewalk Sale
You can shop �til you drop at the Johnson Creek Outlet center for the annual Labor Day Sidewalk Sale. Stores are open from 10 a.m. – 9.p.m. through and the deals only last through the end of Labor Day. Call (920) 699-4111 for details.
Labor Day Sidewalk Sale
Another shopping location for browsing and bargain hunting can be found at the Prime Outlets in Pleasant Prairie. This labor day sale runs from Friday through Labor Day Monday, and stores are open from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Call (262) 857-2101 for details.
Big Band Music at Devil’s Lake State Park
Head down over to Baraboo and enjoy an evening concert from 7:30-10:30 p.m. at the North Shore Chateau in honor of Labor Day. Call (608) 356-8333 for details.
