May Day refers to two distinct celebrations observed on May 1st: 1. Traditional May Day (European Festival)
- It is a European festival of ancient origins marking the beginning of summer, celebrated around May 1st, halfway between the spring equinox and midsummer solstice.
- Traditions include gathering green branches and wildflowers, decorating buildings, crowning a May Queen, dancing around a Maypole, singing, feasting, bonfires, and processions.
- Related festivals include Walpurgis Night, Beltane (a Gaelic festival), Calan Mai (Welsh), and the Roman Floralia.
- This May Day celebrates fertility, growth, and the arrival of summer with folk customs and outdoor festivities
2. International Workers' Day (Labor Movement)
- Also called Labour Day or International Workers' Day, it commemorates the historic struggles and achievements of workers and the labor movement.
- It originated from the labor activism in the late 19th century, notably the 1886 Haymarket affair in Chicago, where workers struck for an eight-hour workday.
- May 1 was chosen by socialist and labor groups internationally in 1889 to promote workers' rights and solidarity.
- It is observed worldwide with demonstrations, rallies, parades, and political activism for labor rights, fair wages, and social justice.
- In some countries like the U.S. and Canada, Labor Day is celebrated in September instead.
- The day was also adopted as a public holiday in many countries, with significant historical importance in the Soviet Union and Europe
In summary, May Day on May 1st is both a traditional spring festival celebrating the start of summer and a significant day for labor rights and workers' solidarity globally. The two celebrations have different origins and customs but share the same date.
