Why Canadians Celebrate Labour Day in September
If you're new to Canada and notice that Labour Day is celebrated on the first Monday in September—while most of the world celebrates on May 1st—you’re not alone in wondering why. For international students, understanding Canadian holidays like Labour Day is a great way to learn more about the country's history, values, and culture of work.
Labour Day in Canada: When and Why?
In Canada, Labour Day is celebrated on the first Monday in September. It’s a national holiday that honours the contributions of workers and the labour movement. While many people today see it as the unofficial end of summer, it has deep roots in the fight for workers' rights, fair wages, and safer working conditions.
But why September? And how is it different from International Workers' Day (May 1st), which is celebrated in dozens of countries around the world?
The History of Labour Day in Canada
Labour Day in Canada dates back to the late 1800s. At that time, workers across the country were pushing for better conditions, shorter hours, and recognition of labour unions. One of the most famous events happened in Toronto in 1872, when workers organized a march to support the right of printers to form a union.
This demonstration became known as the Nine-Hour Movement (for the right to work only nine hours a day), and it played a big role in legalizing unions in Canada.
The tradition of holding labour parades in early September began soon after, and by the 1890s, the Canadian government officially recognized Labour Day as a national holiday—separate from the global May 1st movement.
“Canada declared Labour Day an official holiday after a long and agonizing struggle of workers for over two decades. Canadian workers, just like workers in other countries, continued to protest against the long working hours and to make union activities legalized.”
Why Not Celebrate Labour Day on May 1st Like Other Countries?
Many countries observe International Workers’ Day on May 1st, also known as May Day, to commemorate the 1886 Haymarket Affair in Chicago, where workers protesting for an eight-hour workday were met with violence.
While that event was important to the global labour movement, Canada (and the United States) chose to distance themselves from May 1st due to its association with more radical or socialist politics, especially during the Cold War era.
By keeping Labour Day in September, Canada focused on celebrating labour achievements in a uniquely Canadian context and avoided the political tensions sometimes linked to May Day.
How Canadians Celebrate Labour Day
Today, Labour Day in Canada is both a celebration of working people and a national holiday to relax before the school year starts. Here’s what typically happens:
Parades and union rallies in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa.
Public events promoting workers’ rights and social justice.
Barbecues, festivals, and concerts—especially as it marks the end of summer.
A break before fall semester begins—many students enjoy a last long weekend before classes resume.
Most Canadian universities, like other institutions, are closed for Labour Day, which is a statutory holiday. While some may have specific orientation activities or events for new students, the day itself is generally observed as a day off for classes and administrative operations
While offices and classes are closed on Labour Day, international students may find this a good time to get involved in student unions, campus work opportunities, and clubs that focus on equity, inclusion, and community service—all values connected to the labour movement. Or just spend the day with friends. Many Canadians use the Labour Day long weekend for leisure activities, family time, and enjoying the last days of summer.
💬 What Can You Do as an International Student?
Learn about Canadian workplace culture: It will help you if you plan to work part-time, do a co-op, or apply for a post-graduate job.
Attend local Labour Day events: These can give you insight into social justice movements in Canada.
Join student associations: Many student unions in Canada advocate for fair wages, mental health support, and accessible education—issues aligned with Labour Day’s legacy.
Final Thoughts
Even though Canada’s Labour Day is not on May 1st like it is in many other countries, the spirit of the celebration is the same—to honour the dignity of work, the rights of workers, and the progress made through solidarity.
For international students, especially from countries like Pakistan where May Day is a national holiday, Labour Day in September may feel unfamiliar at first. But it’s a great opportunity to learn about Canada’s history of labour activism and reflect on the values of fairness, justice, and community that continue to shape Canadian society.
As you begin your studies in Canada, take a moment this Labour Day to relax—but also to appreciate the rights and freedoms workers and students enjoy today because of those who marched before us.
Ready to apply for university or college in Canada? Make sure to contact Go 2 Canada Education Services to give you all the details on universities and colleges that are the best fit for your academic and personality profile. And maybe you will celebrate Labour Day in Canada, firsthand.
Photo by RDNE Stock project