Labor Day in Abilene: Top 5 Things To Do Around West Texas

What exactly is Labor Day, and why do we Americans celebrate it with such passion? For many, it’s one of the few Monday holidays that gives us a relaxing three-day weekend. That means I don’t have to take a PTO day to enjoy some well-deserved time off. Over the years, Labor Day has become synonymous with family barbecues, savoring the last days of summer, and, of course, Labor Day sales.

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Labor Day Traditions Across the Lone Star State

Labor Day, which always falls on the first Monday in September, recognizes the hard work Americans—and we Texans in particular—put into making a living. For years, I celebrated by broadcasting live from weekend sales events and competing in the Ben Richey Boys Ranch Chili Cook-Off, which we managed to win seven years in a row over 20 years ago.

Here in Texas, Labor Day also marks the start of bird hunting season, the return of kids to school, and a farewell to our desert-like summers. But when did it all begin?

How Labor Day Began Back in 1882

Labor Day dates back to September 5, 1882, when New York’s Central Labor Union organized a march. It wasn’t just a parade; it was a protest. About 10,000 workers marched down 42nd Street to City Hall, demanding safer working conditions and fair pay, while also honoring the benefits their union provided. Their message was clear: they were overworked and underpaid.

A Three-Day Break From the Grind

In today’s fast-paced world, Labor Day weekend is a 72-hour break from that four-letter dirty word—WORK. It’s three days away from crusty bosses and quirky coworkers. With all that time on your hands, here are my Top 5 Things To Do right here in the Big Country this Labor Day weekend.

Read More: Texans Can Brag Again: State Lands in Top 10 for Fun

Top 5 Things To Do in Abilene This Labor Day

1. Visit the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature for Family Fun Saturday, a free art activity where kids and adults can create their very own clay monsters.
2. Explore the Abilene Zoo and check out the grand opening of Caribbean Cove. Don’t miss the new flavored lemonades and sweet teas while you’re there.
3. Discover the stories at Frontier Texas, and learn how Abilene came to be through interactive exhibits and history that comes alive.
4. Camp out at Abilene State Park and enjoy a night of tent camping, roasting marshmallows, and soaking in the Texas stars.
5. Join the Ben Richey Boys Ranch Chili Super Bowl, where you’ll find live entertainment, plenty of brisket, ribs, and chili, plus auctions that benefit the Ben Richey Boys Ranch.