Labor Day has been a national holiday since 1894, and has always been meant to celebrate the achievements of American workers. Whether you aspire to enjoy a laid-back weekend, or a more elaborate party, we’ve got plenty of great suggestions for things in Salt Lake City that seniors can participate in below.

Why Celebrating Labor Day Matters for Seniors

Labor Day is an opportunity for individuals (seniors included) to celebrate the community, and to find joy in the ideals that still bind us together as Americans.

For seniors, Labor Day offers a unique opportunity for socializing, and seniors in particular could benefit from socialization. According to a 2023 article published by Harvard Health Publishing, research suggests that socializing not only reduces loneliness and anxiety, but it has also been shown to prevent cognitive decline. 

Local Labor Day Events in Salt Lake City for Seniors

Reaping the benefits of socialization on your mental health can be fun and easy with these community events in Salt Lake City.

Senior-Friendly City Events

Breakfast in the Park

Start Labor Day morning off with a free breakfast in the City Park of pancakes, eggs, ham, hash browns, etc. 

Attend the Miner’s Day Parade 

Beginning at 11 a.m. on Labor Day down Main Street, this year’s Miner’s Day Parade marks the 130th anniversary of Miner’s Day. After the parade, you can stroll down to City Park to enjoy free live music throughout the afternoon.

Visit a Farmer’s Market 

For some light physical activity, consider a light stroll at a farmer’s market. While markets will be closed on Labor Day, over Labor Day week, there are multiple farmers’ markets in the Salt Lake City area to choose from and explore. 

Enjoy Free Day at Red Butte Garden and Arboretum 

Not only can you get into the garden for free on Labor Day, but you can also stop in to see Chase McCleary’s Art Exhibit (also free). Take a friend and enjoy nature and art all in one place.

Cultural and Faith-Based Gatherings

Social connection is important, but so is spiritual connection and social wellness. Experience shared values by attending one of the following events with a loved one. 

Take a Tour of Temple Square 

Visit the beauty of a walking tour of Temple Square available in 40 different languages. 

Tip: To inquire about any disability concerns, call guest services at (801) 240-8945.

Attend the Unity Block Party Event in Library Square

Labor Day weekend, starting at 10 a.m. on August 29 until 4 p.m. on August 31, you can enjoy a weekend of celebrating the creativity and cultural representation in Utah at the Unity Block Party.

Fun Activities for Seniors Staying at Home or in Care Communities

For those wishing to stay home for a more low-key celebration, consider the following: 

Creative Indoor Celebrations

Whether it’s at your assisted living facility, or in your own home, celebrating doesn’t have to be complicated. Get some simple patriotic decorations, play some music, eat some simple treats, and consider one of the following activities.

Have a Patriotic Craft Day 

Consider a private painting party with a Labor Day theme, or decorating flowerpots. Getting together with friends and doing something creative can be really fun, while providing mental stimulation.

Have a Labor Day-Themed Game Day 

Have everyone bring their favorite snacks, provide plenty of water, and play Labor Day trivia, Bingo, or cards.

Movie Marathon 

In keeping with the patriotic theme, consider a classic American movie marathon. 

Family BBQ Day 

Have family members bring side dishes, assign someone as “grill master,” and be sure to set up access to drinking water and other water-based drinks for hydration. After everyone has had their fill of BBQ delicacies, enjoy multi-generational games and storytelling time that is sure to engage generations of grandchildren and seniors alike.

Inclusive Options for Seniors With Limited Mobility or Cognitive Conditions

For seniors struggling with disabilities, caregivers can adapt Labor Day fun activities to be inclusive. This can be done by inviting only a few people over to a place that is familiar to the patient, incorporating soft lighting, and keeping the festivities simple to reduce stress, such as:

Have Iced Tea and Reminisce

For seniors struggling with mobility and/or cognitive difficulties, consider getting out the old family photo albums, setting up a slide show of old photos, and catching up.

Have a Board Game Marathon 

Have everyone bring their favorite board game (nothing too complicated) and favorite snack, and just enjoy time together. Even if the patient may not want to play every game, they will likely still enjoy the company. 

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Holiday

Considering that seniors’ health is more likely to be negatively affected by the heat, and Utah’s late-summer heat isn’t something to mess around with, seniors should take the following precautions:

• Stay inside an air-conditioned place during the peak of the heat.
• Wear lightweight, breathable, and loose clothing in light colors.
• Drink extra water to stay hydrated.
• Take breaks from the activities to rest.

When planning on attending a Labor Day event, it’s important to remember the importance of staying cool. Be sure to acquire transportation with air conditioning, bring cooling options, such as cooling towels and water bottles, and call ahead to ensure any places you’re visiting are accessible to everyone’s needs.

Labor Day should be about enjoying what this holiday is all about — celebrating the achievements of American workers, which includes time off to relax and be together with loved ones, enjoying the simple things in life. 

Whether it’s an elaborate BBQ, or a quiet afternoon watching movies, embrace the joy of being together with your loved ones. The ultimate goal is just to make senior participants feel included, valued, and connected.

Sources:

Godman, H. (2023). Get Back Your Social Life to Boost Thinking, Memory, and Health.
Heat and Older Adults (Aged 65+). (2024).
History of Labor Day. (n.d.).