Why Labor Day and Why Do Texans Celebrate It?

Why Texans Celebrate Labor Day  And What’s Open, What’s Closed in Abilene

Labor Day isn’t just another long weekend in Texas. It’s a day rooted in history and hard work. Across the Lone Star State, from oil fields to office towers, it’s a time to pause and honor the people whose labor keeps our communities thriving.

A Holiday with Deep Roots

The origins of Labor Day stretch back to the late 19th century and a pivotal event in American history, the Haymarket Affair of May 4, 1886, in Chicago. Workers nationwide were striking for an eight-hour workday when a rally at Haymarket Square turned violent after a bomb was thrown, leading to chaos and fatalities.

That moment became a rallying cry for workers’ rights, inspiring the labor movement and shaping the holiday we know today.

Texas by the Numbers

Here in Texas, the holiday takes on a special meaning. The state’s workforce is bigger and stronger than ever:

• 15.85 million Texans are in the civilian labor force, the highest number in history.
• Over the past year, Texas added nearly 238,000 people to its labor force.
• Non-farm jobs grew by 198,000, outpacing national averages.
• The unemployment rate sits at a low 4.0%, with some regions, like Midland, dipping as low as 3%, thanks to growth in energy, health care, and education sectors.

This momentum makes Labor Day a celebration not only of history but of the present and the bright future for Texas workers.

What’s Closed in Abilene This Labor Day

If you’ve got errands to run, be aware that many places will be taking the day off so their employees can enjoy the holiday:

• Banks - Closed
• Government offices/buildings  - Closed
• Post Office/Mail Delivery - Closed
• Hendrick Health offices - Closed
• Libraries - Closed
• Schools - Closed
• DPS Driver’s License office - Closed

What’s Staying Open

Not everything slows down. Many businesses keep their doors open, and some run big holiday sales:

• Hospital ERs - Open
• Mall of Abilene - Open
• Wal-Mart, Target, Dollar General - Open
• United Supermarkets / Market Street - Open
• HEB - Open
• City and state parks - Open
• Abilene Zoo - Open
• Splash pads - Open
• Movie theaters - Open

The Spirit of the Day

Big-box retailers often mark Labor Day weekend with sales, but many small, family-owned businesses close to spend time with loved ones, living out the holiday’s original spirit of honoring the “fruits of our labor.”

Whether you’re shopping, grilling, heading outdoors, or simply resting, here’s to a safe and happy Labor Day, Texas-style. And if your business has special hours, let the community know so we can help spread the word.