The best Labor Day sales of 2026 — and how to earn the most points and miles on them

As a kid, I dreaded Labor Day because it marked the end of summer vacation and the return to school. Now, as a grown adult, I look forward to the first Monday in September for many reasons. At the top of the list is the imminent arrival of cooler temperatures after months of heat and humidity, but a close second is the end-of-summer clearance sales that peak around the holiday.Retailers begin offloading their seasonal summer items in August, offering steep discounts on swimsuits, sandals, patio furniture and other outdoor gear through early September. And if you're looking to hit a minimum spending requirement on a credit card bonus, now is the time to look for deals on big-ticket items like mattresses and large appliances.We'll track the best Labor Day sales and keep this article updated with the best deals on luggage, electronics and more. Plus, we'll tell you exactly how to maximize your purchases by stacking cash-back and card offers so you'll have more to spend on your next vacation.When is Labor Day 2026?Labor Day is always the first Monday in September. This year, it's a bit later than usual, falling on Sept. 7. However, sales tend to start in August and run through Sept. 7 ...