The best things to do for Labor Day in Boston

Banners, the state-of-the-art sports bar next to the TD Garden is open on Labor Day, which also happens to be the final day for its summer-long promo of a beer and a lobster roll for only $20. That's a steal! 

When Mother Nature only allows a few months of true outdoor enjoyment, it’s important to maximize that time. Such is life in New England—and our restaurants rise to the occasion with plenty of al fresco dining options. While the tried and true best patios in Boston, rooftop spots and outdoor bars are always a good bet, the unofficial end of summer is high time to check out some of Boston's newer outdoor dining options.

It’s time for every undergrad—and let’s be honest, many apartment dwellers in the Greater Boston area—to celebrate a time-honored annual holiday, Allston Christmas. This year, Stop & Shop is celebrating Allston Christmas in a fun way at its newest location. On Saturday, Aug. 31, and Sunday, Sept. 1, from 11am–1 pm both days, the local grocer is hosting an Allston Christmas party at its store at 305 Guest St. at Allston Yards. The store will have free food samples, holiday music playing—and even Santa Claus handing out goodies to shoppers, as well. Customers who spend $25 or more will receive a limited-edition Allston Christmas shopping bag. What better way to haul home your new-to-you toaster? The shopping bags are also available at the Mission Hill Stop & Shop.

Typically a weekend centerpiece, a three-day weekend is an opportunity for three days of brunch. And lucky for you: We just thoroughly overhauled our guide to the best brunch in Boston!  Whether you're looking to go big with caviar add-ons and Champagne trays, or just relax and have somebosy else fry your eggs for a change, there are options in every neighborhood. May we direct your attention to a few Monday brunch options: Trina's Starlite Lounge has a legendary brunch, and go-tos like Lincoln Tavern and Lone Start Taco Bar do brunch every day, including Labor Day. Two more ideas: Comfort Kitchen—our new No. 1 restaurant in Boston—is introducing brand-new Sunday brunch service at its Dorchester spot over the next couple weeks, including Sunday, Sept. 1. Also, Lone Star's suburban sibling, Deep Ellum, does Monday brunch every week, including this one. Head to Waltham to see what they're all about. 

When the cookie’s powers combine with classic French technique? Well, delicious new traditions are born. PRB Boulangerie, with locations in Somerville, Cambridge, the South End and Time Out Market Boston, offers a totally Instagrammable "crookie" every weekend morning. The cookie-filled croissant has become a bit of a viral sensation and typically sells out by noon. With so many folks out of town for Labor Day weekend, it could be your chance to get your hands on one. 

The Seaport's "social darts" venue, Flight Club, is extending its weekend brunch menu to Monday, Sept. 1, so you can spend Labor Day with friends taking the game of darts to new heights. The various games Flight Club offers include dart racing, instant replay capabilities and more high-tech touches.

As is tradition, admission to the Institute of Contemporary Art is free for Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 5. You can spend the day exploring all the galleries and exhibits, including the ICA Watershed in East Boston, which closes for the season after Labor Day. While the water shuttle between the museum and its annex is sold out for Labor Day weekend, the Watershed is also accessible via the Blue Line. (No ticket is ever required to visit the Watershed; remember that for next summer!)

A local marketplace centered on a beer garden-courtyard, the Charles River Speedway is always a one-stop shop in Brighton to check out a bunch of cool small businesses. But on Labor Day every year, the vendors team up to send off summer with a slew of specials, courtyard pop-ups and more fun. Check out this year's Labor Day Block Party on Monday, Sept. 2, between noon–5pm for live music, archery in Garage B, a pop-up outdoor cocktail bar by Birds of Paradise, a sake-spiked lemonade stand by The Koji Club and Rite Tea Bar, fun for kids like face-painting and more. Food and drink is pay as you go, but all events are free to the public.