Labor Day is around the corner, offering a final three-day weekend to cap the summer and recognize the social and economic achievements of American workers.
When is Labor Day 2025?
– Monday, Sept. 1, 2025. By law, Labor Day is observed on the first Monday of September, a federal holiday established in 1894.
Des Moines Labor Day parade and picnic
– Parade start: 11 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 1
– Route: Floats and participants depart from the Iowa State Capitol and conclude at the Iowa State Fairgrounds
– Post-parade picnic: For labor union members and their families at Union Labor Park, 4640 N.W. Morningstar Drive, Des Moines
Best and worst times to drive over Labor Day weekend
Based on historical traffic patterns for the holiday:
– Busiest times heading out: Thursday and Friday afternoons; early evening and Saturday morning
– Heaviest return periods: Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday mornings
If you can be flexible, consider:
– Better times to depart:
– Thursday before 11 a.m.
– Friday before noon or after 7 p.m.
– Saturday after noon
– Better times to return:
– Sunday before noon
– Monday before 10 a.m.
– Tuesday after 1 p.m.
Helpful travel tips
– Leave early or late: Shifting your departure by a couple of hours can significantly reduce time in traffic.
– Mind closures near the parade route: Expect delays around the Iowa State Capitol and the Iowa State Fairgrounds during staging and dispersal; plan parking and alternate routes.
– Build in buffer time: Congestion can spike unexpectedly during holiday weekends.
– Stay road-ready: Check tires, fluids, wipers, and fuel before long drives.
– Keep safety first: Buckle up, take breaks on longer trips, and avoid distracted or impaired driving.
– Check the forecast: Weather can affect both traffic and event plans; pack accordingly.
Why traffic ebbs and flows this way
Many people depart after work Thursday or midday Friday and aim to return late in the weekend, compressing travel into overlapping windows. Departing earlier in the day or later in the evening helps you miss those peaks.
A positive note
This weekend is not only a chance to enjoy summer’s finale with parades, picnics, and time outdoors—it’s also a moment to honor the workforce that keeps communities moving. A little planning can go a long way in making the most of it.
Quick recap
– Labor Day 2025: Monday, Sept. 1
– Des Moines parade: 11 a.m., from the Iowa State Capitol to the Iowa State Fairgrounds
– Union picnic: Union Labor Park, 4640 N.W. Morningstar Drive
– Best drive times: Early Thursday; early or late Friday; Saturday afternoon; early Sunday/Monday; Tuesday afternoon