Chicago has strong ties to the labor movement. From the Haymarket riots that won workers the eight-hour workday to the strong unions that exist today, thereโs no doubt that Chicago is a union town. Thatโs why Chicagoans go all out for Labor Day!ย
This year, the Chicago Labor Day Parade will take place in the south side Pullman neighborhood on Saturday, Sept. 2. The parade starts at noon at 108th Street and South Cottage Grove Avenue and travels south.ย
Hosted by the Chicago Federation of Labor and supported by community organizations like Pullman National Historic Park, the Labor Day festivities will include a celebratory parade as well as Eddie Fest.
Eddie Fest features food vendors, live music, a beer garden, bounce houses and more Labor Day fun for the entire family. The fest takes place following the parade in Arcade Park from 1-6 p.m.
The south and southeast sides of Chicago have always had strong ties to the labor movement, in part because of the cityโs steel mills. Pullman was the site of the 1894 Pullman Strike and Boycott, an organization of railroad and factory workers that shaped national labor policy.ย
The Pullman Historic District has been developing and highlighting its ties to labor history over the past few years. In 2015, former President Barack Obama designated Pullman National Historic Park as the first National Park Service unit in Chicago. On Labor Day 2021, the community celebrated the opening of the Pullman National Monument Visitor Center.ย
Looking to learn more about the historic Pullman community? Get suggestions for exploring the area with our Family Neighborhood Guide to Pullman, which features some of the best places to eat, explore and shop with kids.
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