Established in 1882 as a day off for the working citizens, Labor Day became a federal holiday on June 28, 1894 after the Haymarket Riots in May of that year. Today it is celebrated on the first weekend of September and marks the beginning of the NFL and college football seasons.

In years past, school didn't start until after Labor Day so many students considered it the last big weekend of the summer. These days some schools start a little earlier but Labor Day is still seen as the last long weekend of summer. Parades and family get-togethers are the most popular way to celebrate the end of summer. So with that in mind we've put together some truly great Labor Day recipes for your end-of-summer celebration.

Appetizers

Chicken Quesadillas
Grilled Prosciutto and Basil-Wrapped Shrimp
On the Border's Guacamole
Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Layer Dip

Salads

Green Bean Salad
Avocado Salad
Broccoli Raisin Salad
Jazzed Up Coleslaw
Potato Salad with Buttermilk Dressing

Main Courses

Grilled or Roasted Salmon with Salsa Fresca
Grilled Ribeye with Blue Cheese
Grilled Lemon Pepper Lamb
Grilled Bourbon Chicken
Texas Hamburger Steak

Desserts

Fresh Peach Pie
Glazed Blueberry Pudding Bundt Cake
Kahlua Brownies
Lemonade Poke Cake
Fruit Trifle

Inside or outside, you can make your presentation laid-back and fun by adding a few late summer touches such as vases of daisies and sunflowers and a sunny yellow theme on your table. No need to do dishes either. Feel free to use paper plates, cups and napkins. After all, it's still summer until the end of the day so relax!