By admin 
Labor Day is just around the corner, marking the unofficial end of summer.
The federal holiday “celebrates the social and economic achievements of American workers” and is observed nationwide each year, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
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Who gets the day off work or school in California?
Here’s what to know about Labor Day in 2026:
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Why we did this story
Our community-driven series — How to California — is here to answer your questions about state laws, history, culture, recreation and travel in the Golden State.
McClatchy’s service journalism team, focused on helping our readers navigate daily life, works in communities across the state, including San Luis Obispo, Fresno, Merced, Modesto and Sacramento.
Ask us your questions — big and small — by emailing [email protected] or filling out a form here.
Is Labor Day a California state holiday?
Labor Day is one of California’s official state holidays under Government Code Section 6700.
Why do we celebrate Labor Day?
The holiday dates back to the late 19th century, when labor activists pushed for a day dedicated to recognizing American workers, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Before it became a federal holiday, Labor Day was celebrated by individual cities and states across the country.
The first Labor Day celebration was held in New York City on Sept. 5, 1882. Several states later adopted the holiday, with Oregon becoming the first in 1887, followed by Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York.
On June 28, 1894, Congress made Labor Day a national holiday.
When is Labor Day in 2026?
Labor Day is observed on the first Monday of September each year.
In 2026, Labor Day falls on Monday, Sept. 7, according to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.
Do California state workers get Labor Day off?
Labor Day is an official paid state holiday for California state employees, according to the California Department of Human Resources.
That means state offices typically close, and eligible state workers receive the day off with pay.
Which California workers get Labor Day off?
California law does not require private employers to give employees Labor Day or any other holiday off, according to the California Department of Industrial Relations.
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Employers also aren’t required to provide additional “holiday pay” to employees who work on Labor Day.
Whether employees receive the day off — and whether they are paid extra for it — is typically determined by their employer’s policies or an employment agreement.
Do California schools close for Labor Day?
In California, Labor Day is a public school holiday.
That means all public schools are required to close, according to California Education Code 37220.
What’s closed for Labor Day 2026?
Many government offices will be closed on Labor Day, including California state offices and federal agencies.
UPS and the U.S. Postal Service will not provide regular mail delivery on Labor Day, and offices will be closed.
Most banks and financial institutions also close for the federal holiday.
Hours for restaurants, grocery stores, retailers and other privately owned businesses can vary by location.
If you’re planning to shop or run errands on Labor Day, check with the business before heading out.
Have a question about life in California?
How to California— a guide to help you live, work and enjoy life in the Golden State, is here to help.
We’ll answer your questions — big and small — about state laws, history, culture, recreation and travel.
Ask your questions in the form below (can’t see it? Click here) or email [email protected].
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