Labor Day Party Ideas
The first Monday of September is a day set aside in honor of America’s workers. In the late 1800’s, amidst the Industrial Revolution, average Americans typically worked 12-hour days, seven days a week to get by. People of all ages were forced into unsafe working conditions, where necessities like fresh air, sanitary facilities, and breaks were scarce.
Labor Day became an official national holiday in the U.S. in 1896, as declared by President Grover Cleveland. Although this observance actually started began in New York City in 1882. Union leaders had called for a general Labor Day festival and rally. At first it seemed only a few workers were willing to take the day off without wages, but the crowd grew to around 10,000 people, to join the rally and march for the rights of workers.
Today Labor Day is spent celebrating the final days of summer. The weekend is filled with retail sales, backyard barbecues, and last minute getaways. This is the weekend that sports fans get excited about as it is chock full of events, most notably, with the kick-off of football season.
Whatever your plans are, here are some great ideas for Labor Day parties (and a recipe too) to get you started. These will allow you and your guests to have fun with the food and drink menu and activities.
Back-to-School Bash
Play up the “Old School” theme: tap a keg of your favorite brew, grab the solo cups and playing cards and turn the music up! It could be fun to promote a college days theme, and have everyone chip in and bring their favorite cheap eats and just enjoy in the most casual way possible. You can also tip one back for the kids being back in school!
Beach Party
Have fun with this theme and go all out – costumes and decorations, themed food dishes and drinks. There is no limit to the amount of entertainment you could have with this theme. Having a pool will make this party easy but don’t dismay if your backyard lacks one. Think of alternative ways to have fun in the sun, and water. Check out this awesome video about on reinventing kickball for adults (kids will have a blast too!)
Football Kick-Off
This theme could be utilized either at home or away. There is no end to the menu of tailgate food and drink specials. Apparently there is no end to football shaped food you can make either. So, whether it is college or pro football, throw on your favorite team colors and celebrate the first weekend of the season!
Whatever the theme or where you are going, Festival Wine and Spirits has everything you need to mix up and serve the perfect drinks for your Labor Day celebration. We recommend checking out our weekly specials. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you find what you need for a memorable occasion.
Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Here is one of our favorite party dip recipes that pairs well with all beer, wine and cocktails. It is easy to make and sure to be a crowd pleaser. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 10-ounce box frozen cut or chopped spinach, thawed
- 1 12-ounce jar artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup whipped cream cheese
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup grated Cheddar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- pita chips, tortilla chips, or sliced French bread
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Directions
- Heat oven to 400° F.
- Squeeze the spinach between paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, and Cheddar. Season with the salt and pepper.
- Scrape the mixture into a small oven-safe baking dish. Bake until lightly golden and heated through, about 15 minutes. Serve warm with the chips or bread and the lemon wedges, if desired.
Source: RealSimple.com
If you have any questions or are looking for suggestions for drinks to accompany your Labor Day celebration, come into Festival Wine and Spirits in Annapolis. Also, make sure you check out our weekly specials, might just find something perfect for your guests!
