Labor Day ... It might just be everyone's favorite first Monday of the month. If your groups are looking for more than a picnic to celebrate the end of summer, they're in luck. Below is just a smattering of Labor Day and Labor Day Weekend festivals and events. Some are cool. Some are cool and—we'll admit it—a bit unusual. All are noteworthy, however, so if you're ever looking for Labor Day activities or festivities to fill an itinerary, keep these annual events in mind.

As civilization continues to spread its own wings, places to find native wild animals in their natural habitats continue to dwindle. Yet parks and preserves across North America still conserve rich environments—offering great spots for your own packs to experience the wonder of wild animals. Consider these five destinations for your animal lovers.

"It's been around for hundreds—if not thousands—of years," said Ron Porep, Director of the Milan Village Arts School in Milan, Minnesota.

Wooden spoon carving.

For the first time in 99 years, a total solar eclipse is sweeping across the entire United States. On August 21, 2017, a new moon will orbit between the Sun and Earth, casting the nation in shadow.