Labor Day, the unofficial end of summer, is celebrated on September 2nd, 2024. This annual holiday, established in New York over 140 years ago, honors the American workforce. From parades and festivals to museum visits and outdoor activities, there are countless ways to enjoy Labor Day weekend in NYC. So, whether you're looking to relax, explore, or celebrate, the city has something to offer everyone.

All White Attire Labor Party Cruise

Celebrate with the Chill Vibes Party Cruise on the East River. You have 4 opportunities to party in your all-white attire Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. The party cruise offers excellent views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, and Williamsburg Bridge as you marvel at the skyline view of Manhattan. Cool off in the harbor breezes and dance the night away. Food and drinks are available for purchase. You must be 21 and tickets are general admission. Buy tickets and find out more on the website.

Stroll The Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit

The Washington Square outdoor art exhibit began 80 years ago when the iconic abstract expressionism Jackson Pollock and Willem De Kooning set up some of their work for sale.  Today artists and artisans flock to the park to showcase examples of their creative work. These artists encompass many genres and offer their works for sale as well as competitions in which they win awards and cash prizes. 

This year more than 50 artists and artisans will offer their paintings, photography, jewelry, woodworking, ceramics, and more for sale. Come out and see what the next great artist has to offer. The event is held from September 2nd through 4th and again from September 9th and 10th. The exhibit is on display on University Place between Waverley Place and East 11th Street. Washington Square Park is a 32-minute car ride on most days from The Lucerne. Anticipate some traffic on Labor Day.

Feast At Smorgasburg in Williamsburg

While Williamsburg is a 45 minute car ride from The Lucerne, foodies should not miss this opportunity to feast in style at the Brooklyn neighborhood’s Smorgasburg on Labor Day Weekend in NYC. This famous open-air food market offers so many different and delicious options. Come check out the popular Brooklyn foodie event from 11 to 6 on Saturdays in Williamsburg or Sundays in Prospect Park. If you’re around on Fridays you won’t have to go over the bridge just down to Lower Manhattan to Oculus at WTC. For more information, locations, and directions to Feast Smorgasburg go to the website.

Parade Like a Real New Yorker

The official worker’s Labor Day parade is held on September 7th this year at 10 am. If you are in the Big Apple at this time you’ll absolutely enjoy the official NYC Labor Day parade. It begins at 10 am at 44th Street and 5th Avenue, continuing north to the Grandstand at 64th Street. Come cheer on NYC’s labor force and join in the fun.

The other Labor Day Parade is held on September 2nd, 2024. This event is also known as the West Indian Day Parade and Caribbean American Parade and it is one of the most colorful Labor Day NYC celebrations. Each year some 2-3 million festival goers celebrate Caribbean heritage and culture. This year marks the 54th celebration. 

The parade kicks off at 11 am and goes until…whenever! There is no official ending time. The parade starts at Crown Heights near Park Slope in Brooklyn and is well worth the trip. It's a favorite way for New Yorkers to kick up their most colorful heels on Labor Day weekend.

The Upper West Side

Of course, not all the festivities are far from the Upper West Side. Lincoln Center always has something going on and Labor Day weekend NYC is no exception. See a play or go to the opera. Here is the events calendar for that weekend at Lincoln Center.

The American Museum of Natural History hosts a full weekend of events for Labor Day in NYC including a 3D showing of Oceans: Our Blue Planet in the LeFrak Theatre. There’s always something amazing going on at the American Museum of Natural History.

Finally, enjoy Labor Day weekend in NYC by doing what New Yorkers love to do. Stroll through the park. Both Central Park and Riverside Park host ongoing events through the summer. Check out the parks and just people-watch or catch an impromptu concert. Get out in nature and soak up the last warm days of summer.

Stay with us at The Lucerne this Labor Day weekend and enjoy the holiday NYC style. Book your stay today at The Lucerne, the luxury hotel on NYC’s Upper West Side.