Labor Day Weekend in NYC: 20+ AMAZING Things To Do You Shouldn’t Miss in 2024
Labor Day NYC celebrates the significance of workers, evolving from its roots as “International Worker’s Day.” Today, it’s a beloved American holiday, drawing families to cities like New York for festivities. If you’re in or visiting NYC this Labor Day, you’ll find a plethora of activities, from festivals to concerts. Dive in for ways to make the most of your NYC Labor Day experience!
Attention: Contrary to many websites, there are no fireworks on Labor Day Weekend!
When Is Labor Day 2024?
Labor Day is celebrated every first Monday of September. This year, it falls on September 2, 2024. Federal and government offices are closed on this day, as well as many other places of business. However, you’ll find that most retail stores, restaurants, and attractions are still open to enjoy on Labor Day.
What is there to do on Labor Day weekend in New York?
Labor Day in New York City is a great time to spend with your family and friends. If you’re not from the area, come to New York City to enjoy the many festivals, parades, concerts, sporting events, and attractions that this city has to offer. With all of this going on, there is bound to be something for everyone, so make it a point to celebrate Labor Day in New York City!
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01
Labor Day Parade (West Indian American Day Festival)
Other Events in Crown Heights
The Labor Day Parade (also known as the West Indian Day Parade and Caribbean American Parade) is the most colorful event in NYC. Every year, between 2 and 3 million people are expected to celebrate Caribbean culture.
At the same time, the West Indian Day Parade has a long history: in fact, in 2024 it will be held for the 54th time. The parade starts in Crown Heights in Brooklyn, not far from Park Slope. Get ready for a lot of happy and colorfully decorated people – a good mood is guaranteed!
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02
Attend the U.S. Open
Sport Events in Flushing
Make this Labor Day Weekend stand out by watching tennis champions showcase their skills. The U.S. Open runs from August 26 to September 8 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens. Don’t let it be just another weekend; immerse yourself in the thrill of the game!
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03
Plan a Labor Weekend Getaway from NYC
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
Escape the city’s hustle this Labor Day Weekend! Dive into our curated list of getaways from NYC, perfect for soaking in the last of summer vibes or welcoming autumn’s embrace.
Whether you’re yearning for serene beaches, mountain retreats, or cultural gems, find your perfect escape here and make the long weekend truly memorable.
My tip: Here you can find the best Labor Weekend Getaways from NYC.
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Enjoy the view aboard the Labor Day Weekend Cruise
Cruise in Gramercy
Sail into an unforgettable Labor Day Weekend on Skyport Marina’s premium yachts. NYC’s finest DJs will be dropping the hottest beats, ensuring non-stop dancing. Enjoy two levels of music in our temperature-regulated vessels, paired with unparalleled city views. Indulge in a crafted cocktail and soak up the atmosphere. Secure your spot for the NYC Labor Day Weekend Cruises!
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05
Go to the New York Giants (or New York Jets!)
Sports Tickets in Outside of New York City
Sports fans take note: Labor Day also means the start of the football season. The New York Giants and New York Jets are back in action.
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06
Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit
Other Events in Greenwich Village
Explore local artistry at the Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit, a NYC Labor Day Weekend highlight. The event is organized by the Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit, Inc., a non-profit organization that promotes the work of emerging and established artists.
It has been held every year since 1932, making it one of the oldest outdoor art exhibits in the country. The exhibit is open to the public and is free to attend. Visitors can browse and purchase artwork from over 300 artists, and there are also food vendors and live music performances.
The exhibit is a great opportunity to see and support the work of talented artists and experience the vibrant culture of Greenwich Village.
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Labor Day Weekend w/ Open Squash and a special Sunday BBQ at Hester Street Fair
Other Shopping in Financial District
At your favorite NYC flea market, do you enjoy looking for hidden treasures? If so, one of the best places to shop in New York City on a budget is the Hester Street Fair.
As you can see, this renowned street fair and flea market has existed since 2010. It lost the lease for its original location on Hester Street, which was very upsetting for everyone in the world of discount shopping.
They did, however, move to a temporary location in the Seaport region only recently. So make sure to go and browse the goods and clothing offered by their various vendors.
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08
Enjoy Labor Day Brunch all weekend long
Bar in Lower East Side
The Loreley Beer Garden is serving a great brunch from Friday to Monday (12 p.m. – 4 p.m.) – so don’t miss the chance to eat their amazing Buttermilk Chicken Schnitzel & Waffles and freshly baked Cinnamon Rolls!
My tip: Here you find the best brunch in NYC.
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09
Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET)
Museum in Upper East SideOur Highlight
Visit one of the various NYC museums during Labor Day. Many offer free admission for Military families and host special exhibitions for Labor Day.
Check out our list of the 36 best museums of New York.
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10
Enjoy the views from Honorable William Wall
Cruise in Lower ManhattanOur Highlight
The Honorable William Wall, affectionately called “Willy Wall”, is the floating clubhouse of the Manhattan Yacht Club. The clubhouse is anchored in New York Harbor north of Ellis Island from May to October. What is so special about it? It’s definitely an insider’s spot, which not only gives you a great view of Ellis Island and of course the Statue of Liberty – you can also enjoy the sunset from here.
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11
Nathan's Famous
Other Restaurants in Coney Island & Brighton Beach
Visit one of New York City’s famous Coney Island attractions like Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs for a Labor Day indulgence. The combination of the old attractions of the amusement park, newly created rides and traditional treasures with the proximity to the sea makes Coney Island New York one of the attractions in the mega metropolis New York City.
Already in the 19th century, the peninsula has developed into a recreational and fun center for the urban population of New York City.
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Enjoy mesmerizing views from an observation deck
Building in Hudson YardsOur Highlight
On Labor Day all of our observation decks in NYC will be open! But which one is the best? I personally really like The Edge Hudson Yards the most but you can’t go wrong with any of the observation decks we have. Here you find all of them!
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Book a Dinner Cruise
Cruise in Chelsea
Forget trying to snag a hard-to-get reservation at New York’s hottest restaurants du jour. Instead, indulge in a delicious 3-course dinner during the cruise on an all-glass boat around New York City that offers you an up-close look at the Statue of Liberty and other famed sites.
As a live pianist plays relaxing music for you, take in the immense view of one of the world’s great cities, and enjoy a delicious pre-set dinner by the on-board executive chef. Upgrade to enjoy a romantic or first class VIP experience including a private table and French sparkling wine.
Here you find the best Dinner Cruises in NYC right now.
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14
Visit Little Island
Other Attraction in Meatpacking District
Not far from the Meatpacking District and the High Line, Little Island is one of the newest attractions in New York and is something very special: a park on 132 beautiful tulip-shaped concrete stilts in the Hudson River!
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Sail around the city
Cruise in Chelsea
Many of the sailing cruises have already reopened and are back to the rivers of New York City. Sailing in New York City is one of my favorite things to do during the summer. There’s nothing better than watching the sunset and enjoying a glass of wine onboard.
Here are some amazing options that are taking place right now, with safety measures of course:
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Take in stunning views from a rooftop bars
Rooftop Bar in WilliamsburgOur Highlight
We love September because it’s still warm but not so hot – it’s a perfect time to visit one of the rooftop bars in New York City to either end the day or just enjoy the view during the day.
Here you can find our 43 Best Rooftop Bars in New York.
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17
Electric Zoo Music Festival
Other Events in Upper West SideLabor Day Weekend hosts the annual Electric Zoo Music Festival in New York. The Electric Zoo Festival is a three-day music festival that takes place on Randall’s Island, which you can walk to if you’re in Astoria, Queens. Electric Zoo brings in some of the top performers in the house and dubstep genre. Some of the past performers include the late Avicii, Steve Aoki, Benny Benassi, and much more.
There are a bunch of ways to get to Randall’s Island: the closest subway station is “125 Station”. Your best bet is either by taking the NYC Ferry or an Uber. Also, if you’re in Astoria, you can walk across the RFK bridge. That bridge will lead you right into the island. Tickets are sold out quickly and should be ordered online in advance.
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18
Richmond County Fair
Museum in Staten Island
Historic Richmond Town provides its visitors with a unique opportunity to find out more about the history and culture of Staten Island. You will find over 28 impressive historic buildings from the late 17th to early 20th century, all in a complex that is over 15 square miles large.
The Richmond County Fair will also be held on Labor Day (August 31 -September 2, 2024). Now that’s a reason to visit Staten Island!
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19
Bronx Zoo
Other Attraction in Bronx
The Bronx Zoo and Central Park Zoo typically offer discounts on this particular days, along with special events to celebrate the holiday.
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20
Catch a movie on a rooftop (it's amazing!!!)
Other Art & Culture in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
We love the Free Summer Movies, which are available at different places in New York. They are an absolute MUST DO in the summer, so you should definitely plan the Free Summer Movies for yourself.
But you can also go one floor higher: with the cinema events on the roofs of hotels or bars. The Rooftop Film Club on top of the Skylawn Embassy Suites show films in lofty heights on several days during the summer.
You can see these films on Labor Day in NYC:
- Aug 31: Love Jones | Back To The Future | The Parent Trap | The Princess Bride | The Virgin Suicides
- Sept 1: How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days | Encanto | Top Gun | The Notebook | Romeo & Juliet
- Sept 2: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone | The Sandlot | Dirty Dancing | Good Fellas
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21
Take in the maritime atmosphere at Grand Banks
Sea Food Restaurant in TribecaOur Highlight
New York is surrounded by water, giving it plenty of waterfronts to enjoy breathtaking views. You should absolutely take advantage of NYC’s waterfront during Labor Day Weekend! Whether you’re walking along Hudson River Park or want to grab a meal, it’s an absolute must-do in NYC in September. Our favorite summer location is Grand Banks because of its maritime atmosphere and super delicious food! If you decide to go to Grand Banks, try to get there a little before the golden hour.
This is my favorite spot in New York City!
Read more about Grand Banks – or check out Pilot Brooklyn!
Budget tip
If you want to visit several observations decks, attractions and tours in New York, check out the New York sightseeing passes. You can save up to 60% on the ticket price! To find out which New York Pass is the best for you, check out my Pass Comparison for New York.
Many restaurants offer their special Labor Day brunch and day party.
Looking for different cuisine? Most restaurants are offering special events or menus for Labor Day weekend.
Labor Day Parade or West Indian Day Parade
There are two different parades each day:
The West Indian Day Parade is set for September 2, 2024, at 11:00 am in Brooklyn. This parade starts on the Easter Parkway and Schenectady and heads to Flatbush. There isn’t an official ending time because this tends to last most of the day. You can expect a lot of dancing, live music, and performances celebrating Caribbean culture, arts, history, and tradition.
If you’re looking for something closer to Midtown, Manhattan hosts its own parade on Labor Day. The kick-off events start at 10:00 am at 5th Ave and 44th Street in Manhattan with a free concert.
When is the Labor Day Parade?
September 2, 2024, at 10am.
Where is the Labor Day Parade?
It begins at Fifth Avenue and 44th Street.
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