Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on the first Monday in September. Veterans Day is a federal holiday observed annually on November 11th.
The dates for these holidays are determined by different criteria rooted in their historical origins. Labor Day was established to celebrate the American labor movement and was designated as the first Monday in September by federal law in 1894, creating a long weekend. In contrast, the date for Veterans Day is fixed to commemorate a specific historical event. It originates from Armistice Day, which marked the end of World War I on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. The date was retained when the holiday was expanded in 1954 to honor all veterans.
This distinction results in a key difference in their observance. Labor Day is a floating holiday, ensuring it always falls on a Monday. Veterans Day is observed on November 11th regardless of which day of the week it falls on. When November 11th is a Saturday or Sunday, the federal government may observe the holiday on the preceding Friday or the following Monday, respectively, granting a day off for federal employees.
