SAN DIEGO -- In the midst of a recession and unemployment reaching record highs, many San Diegans used the Labor Day holiday as a day to look for a job, 10News reported.

Traditionally, Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer and a day of rest, but with one in 10 San Diegans now out of work and nearly 12 percent of Californians unemployed, Labor Day has taken on a whole new meaning.

"This Labor Day in particular really kind of strikes a chord with people," said John Walker, of the Pink Slip Mixers group.

Across the nation, unemployment figures have hit their highest point in 26 years, with nearly 216,000 jobs lost last month alone.

On Monday, while some soaked up the sun, one group used the holiday to get back on track.

"When you don't have a job, you take the job search very seriously and it becomes a job, almost so when opportunities like this come up they take priority," said job seeker Lisa Wires.

Several job seekers skipped the sandy beaches of San Diego and spent the day socializing with other people in similar positions and those looking to hire at a Pink Slip Mixer event. Resumes were exchanged and ideas were shared at this event, with many hoping it leads to work.

"You know, meet someone, shake their hand, share a drink and just talk about what they're looking for," said Walker.

Despite gloomy figures, there are some signs the economic tide may be turning, as the stock market has started to rebound, banks are beginning to lend again and home sales are up.

The positive outlook has many at the event hoping they'll be able to spend next Labor Day the way it was meant to be spent.

"Believe me we don't want to see the same group of people here today, next year. We want everybody to be employed and working," said Walker.

San Diego was one of six cities selected to host the national event, which was organized by local volunteers.