As we approach Labor Day–a time when many of us prepare to gather for one last summer celebration before the hustle and bustle of the fall season–I find myself reflecting on the deep-rooted traditions that make this holiday so special for my family—and many Black families across the country. Labor Day is a time to reconnect, reminisce, and indulge in the comfort of familiar faces and beloved dishes. For many, it’s the last big gathering until the holiday season, so we tend to go all out, ensuring the day is filled with good food, good music, and great company.

Memories of Family Gatherings

As we gear up for Dewey’s family reunion next weekend, memories of past gatherings flood my mind. On both sides of my family, we’re blessed with big, blended families where terms like “step,” “half,” or “in-law” don’t exist—we’re just family. I think back to the massive cookouts at my great aunt Mignon’s house in Bowie, Maryland, where every inch of the backyard was filled with laughter, the smell of barbecue, and the sound of children playing. Those gatherings were a melting pot of generations, where elders shared stories while the younger folks caught up on the latest from local go-go bands.I had no business knowing the lyrics to Rare Essence’s “Overnight Scenario,” but I did.

Then there were the legendary multi-generational parties at my late Grandma’s house in the Bronx. My grandma’s home was the heart of our family, a place where everyone was welcome, and no one left hungry. There was lots of Jamaican food all around. The parties were loud, vibrant, and filled with love—just like the city itself. Whether it was a special occasion or just a Sunday, Aunt Lil’s house was the place to be.

Even the more intimate gatherings at home with my parents, siblings, and close friends hold a special place in my heart. My parents, who come from large families themselves, always knew how to throw a good party. Our house would be packed with people, and the energy was always high. Whether it was a cookout, a holiday, or just a weekend get-together, a time was had.

Must-Have Recipes for a Labor Day Cookout

For those of us who love to cook—and eat!—Labor Day is a chance to showcase our culinary skills, bringing out the best of Black culinary traditions. Here are a few must-have recipes that have been staples at my family gatherings. These recipes are not just dishes; they’re memories on a plate, filled with love, tradition, and flavor.

Party Punch

This punch has been a fixture at every family gathering for as long as I can remember. My dad (who affectionatly refers to it as “Ghetto Juice,”) makes it for every party, and it never disappoints.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of fruit punch concentrate
• 2 liters of ginger ale
• 1 cup of sugar (or to taste)
• Fresh fruit slices (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large punch bowl, mix the fruit punch concentrate with the ginger ale.
2. Stir in the sugar until it’s fully dissolved.
3. Add fresh fruit slices for garnish and serve over ice.

This punch is sweet, fizzy, and just the right amount of refreshing—a perfect companion for the end of summer.

7-Up Cake

My late grandma Wanda would bake it for every special occasion. Whenever we would head back to New York from a weekend in DC, she would send us with huge slices of this cake. It’s a simple yet delicious dessert that’s always a hit.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 5 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons lemon extract
• 3/4 cup 7-Up soda

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in the lemon extract.
5. Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
6. Slowly add the 7-Up soda, mixing until the batter is smooth.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 70-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

This cake is moist, flavorful, and a little slice of nostalgia.

Tuna Mac Salad

This is a flavorful twist on the classic pasta salad, perfect for a cookout. It’s a dish that’s easy to make and always goes quickly.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cans of tuna in water, drained
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard
• 1/4 cup chopped pickles or relish
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, celery, and red onion.
3. Add the cooled macaroni and mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and Mrs. Dash (or Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute) to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

This salad is creamy, tangy, and a perfect side dish for any barbecue.

Fashion Ideas for the Day

Labor Day cookouts–like any other gathering of Black folks–are just as much about the fashion. It’s the last time we can fully embrace summer styles before the cooler weather sets in. For many, like Dewey’s family, this day is also about family reunions, with people donning their family surnames across their chests like banners.

If you’re attending a cookout that’s doubling as a family reunion, consider sporting custom t-shirts with your family name or crest. Pair it with comfortable, stylish jeans or shorts, and some fresh sneakers or sandals. Don’t forget your accessories—sun hats, sunglasses, and statement jewelry can elevate your look while keeping you cool.

For those who want to keep it simple but chic, go for a flowy sundress or a lightweight jumpsuit. Both options are comfortable yet fashionable and allow you to move freely while chasing kids, flipping burgers, or dancing to the music.

The Soundtrack of the Day

No Labor Day cookout is complete without the perfect playlist. Music sets the tone for the day, bringing people together and keeping the energy high. I’ve put together a playlist called “We Outside (The Final)”—a collection of tracks that capture the essence of the end of summer. This playlist is the perfect backdrop for everything from firing up the grill to winding down as the sun sets.

Expect a mix of classic R&B, hip-hop, and soul that’ll have everyone from the kids to the grandparents nodding their heads and tapping their feet. Some highlights include:

• “Before I Let Go” by Maze featuring Frankie Beverly – A cookout anthem that never fails to get people on their feet.
• “Family Reunion” by The O’Jays – A soulful reminder of what this day is all about.
• “Summertime” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince – The ultimate summer jam that’ll have everyone reminiscing about the good old days.
• “Electric Boogie” by Marcia Griffiths – Because no cookout is complete without a group line dance.
• “Back That Thang Up” by Juvenile – A throwback that’ll get the younger crowd hyped and the older folks reminiscing about their club days.

A Time to Gather, A Time to Reflect

As we prepare for this year’s Labor Day cookouts, let’s take a moment to appreciate the traditions that make these gatherings so special. It’s a time to connect with loved ones, to honor our roots, and to create new memories. Whether you’re hosting a big family reunion or a small get-together with close friends, make the most of the day. Enjoy the food, the fashion, and the music, and cherish the time spent with the people who matter most.

Here’s to a Labor Day filled with love, laughter, and plenty of good vibes.