According to the US Department of Labor, the first Labor Day in the US was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882. However, it wasn't until 1894 that it was made into an official federal holiday. Since then, we've celebrated Labor Day on the first Monday of September.
The ways we commemorate this holiday may have changed throughout the years, but one thing's clear: It's still a major day for Americans to party before summer officially ends.
So don't miss out this year. We've compiled a list of Labor Day activities in Brooklyn, NY that are suitable for people of all ages, including seniors.
The West Indian Day Parade is one of the best seasonal events in Brooklyn, NY, to attend. It's held every Labor Day, and it celebrates Caribbean heritage.
Head over to Eastern Parkway between Schenectady Avenue and Grand Army Plaza to join in on the festivities. You can expect:
If you get hungry, there are many delicious Caribbean food stalls there, meaning you can fill your stomach while trying new dishes.
This outdoor experience is free, and it's perfect for cultural immersion and gentle strolling with your loved ones.
If you're attending the West Indian Day Parade, you should head over to the Brooklyn Museum afterward, as it's near the parade route. It's a great spot to duck into if it's hot outside and you need a break, as there are air-conditioned galleries.
You'll find art from all over the world in this museum, such as:
Most of the exhibits are accessible, and there are benches and resting areas if you get tired.
If you visit the day before (Sunday, August 31st), they're having "The Ultimate Fete - One People." From 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm, you can participate in a celebration of Caribbean excellence. They will have DJs and live performers on the scene.
The Lefferts Historic House is nestled right in Prospect Park. It was built in the 18th century and is a Flatbush farmhouse and New York City landmark.
What's interesting is that it was originally located blocks away from the park, but it was moved into the park in 1918. Today, you can go look at it and get a glimpse into Brooklyn's colonial era.
The area is typically quiet and serene, so it's a low-key yet engaging experience for Labor Day. You can even book a guided tour if that's what you're interested in.
There are plenty of spots to sit and soak in history at a relaxed pace. This makes it ideal for people of all ages and mobility levels.
Why not combine fitness and holiday fun for seniors? Walking is one of the wellness activities that supports healthy aging, so use this as an excuse to explore everything Brooklyn has to offer.
Put on your walking shoes, grab your family members, and go on either a guided or self-guided tour around the city. Some suggestions for senior-friendly toursinclude:
All of these tours are flexible and informative. Plus, they can be tailored to your energy level and pace.
We mentioned Prospect Park earlier; a visit to the Lefferts Historic House can be great, but what else is in store? The good news is, this park is fantastic for assisted living recreation.
This green space is ideal for quiet walks, and you can take your time to breathe the fresh air in while birdwatching. You can also take breaks on the shaded benches, and if you pack a lunch for the family, you can have a small Labor Day picnic too.
If you have time, stop at the Center for Brooklyn History, which is close by. There are indoor exhibitions on local history, and it's calm and accessible.
The Brooklyn Conservatory of Music has a wonderfully rich calendar. No matter what time of year you go, there's bound to be concerts and performances you're interested in. It's ideal for a memory care lifestyle since art and music are good for cognitive health.
It gets even better than that, though. The conservatory has other activities, such as:
Many events are senior-friendly, and they're held in accessible venues. Not only can you enjoy music, but you can also socialize and engage in creative arts.
One of the best senior-friendly celebrations for Labor Day is the Mark Morris Dance Center's Dance for Parkinson's classes. As the name implies, the workshops are designed to promote:
Dance is an excellent way to encourage these things, as it's fun, therapeutic, and uplifting. There's also a supportive environment that often includes caregivers too.
The Brooklyn Navy Yard is a stunning area that you must treat your family to this holiday. There are scenic rooftops and cafes that provide peaceful views.
This is the ideal setting to have a quiet afternoon while chatting with friends and enjoying the cool breeze. Lots of the cafes are accessible, and there are plenty of seating options that give you outstanding views of the skyline and waterfront.
There are so many Labor Day activities to choose from, considering that Brooklyn is a vibrant and diverse city. Carefully consider the activities on this list and plan out your day ahead of time so you aren't stressed.
On the big day, stay hydrated and rest often, especially during the parade. And combine outdoor and indoor activities so you can have an escape plan if it's too hot!
Contact us today to hear more about senior living in Brooklyn, NY. The Watermark at Brooklyn Heights has three distinct restaurants on the premises, where we cater to gluten-free, vegan, and meat-eaters alike.