Fun and Delicious Things to Do for Labor Day in New York

Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States and is always celebrated on the first Monday in September. It was formed back in 1882 as a day for working citizens to have a day off. It was made official on June 28, 1894 as a permanent holiday for all 50 states and has been one of those days where Americans sit back and relax or travel to places they haven't been able to during their work week. When Labor Days comes around it is always a reminder that summer is ending and the colder weather will be just around the corner.

Labor Day tends to spring up on us without notice just like any other holiday tends to do. Unlike years in the past, you can plan ahead given you don't let it sneak up on you. Millions of Americans celebrate Labor Day all over the United States with parties, BBQ's, and other activities.

In New York there are a lot of various activities that you, your family, and friends and join in on depending on what you're into. If Fairs and Festivals are you forte, then checking out the Schaghticoke Fair may be right up your alley. The Schaghticoke Fair is one of three New York's oldest fairs. It's celebrating its 190^th year in the making.

If unique and historical is your style then the New York Renaissance Faire would be the place for you. If you enjoy magicians, jousting, juggling, a bit of history, and amazing shoppes you are sure to have a great time.

If staying closer to home is more in your budget or just more convenient, then maybe a local river or lake would make your Labor Day a blast. Boating, fishing, and swimming are great activities for the entire family. Teaching a child how to fish is a great way to bond and spend some real quality time together.

Now take note, visiting the fairs and other activities around various areas of New York are just ways for you to kill some time before the awesome Bar-B-Q that will be awaiting you. Can't you taste the delicious and savory hotdogs and burgers straight from the grill? One of America's favorite foods on Labor Day is flame kissed burgers. This year why not change it up a bit. Instead of cooking up the traditional burger add some flair to it still keeping healthy in mind.

Depending on what type of burgers you enjoy such as spicy or cheesy, there are many different recipes that will suit your desires. Perhaps you want to add some pizzazz to your Labor Day meal. Well if that is the case, simply add some jalapeno peppers (seeded and minced) into the ground beef before forming them into patties. If you want more spice add a bit of Chile pepper (seeded and minced) or some habanera pepper (seeded and minced). This will really get your taste buds sizzling.

If you enjoy the more mild and cheesy burgers then simply dice up some cheddar or any flavor of cheese you'd like and add it to the ground beef before forming them into patties. You can pretty much add anything you'd like to your burger before putting them on the grill. Even mixing the ground beef with a bit of Bar-B-Q sauce, breadcrumbs, one egg, and some diced onions creates delicious burgers. This is one favorite of my family every time we hit the grill for dinner.

If you're not into the whole meaty burgers from the grill there is an alternative for anyone who is a vegetarian. It is the thick, juicy, and fresh tasting eggplant. They are very simple to prepare and delicious to eat. Simply slice the eggplant cross-wise as if you are slicing a tomato. You can remove the purple skin if you wish, but keeping the skin on helps to hold in the moisture around the edges of the slices when placed on the grill. You can season with salt and pepper or any of your choices. Spray each slice top and bottom with some non-stick cooking spray and place on a hot grill flipping half way through. You'll know it's done when it is tender but still firm. Add these to a hamburger bun along with your favorite condiments and some lettuce and tomato and enjoy. And to end the perfect evening, just sit back with a few drinks, good friends, family, and watch the sun set.