Labor Day

It seems absolutely logial to me to make a point about labor here. Holidays related to labor and labouring men exist in 142 countries around the world, but not everywhere they are celebrated on May 1.

In the USA

May 1 is not an official day off while some other days are: Human Rights Day; Child health day; Loyalty Day; Blessing of the Bikes.

Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday in September. Labor Day became a national holiday in 1894 by the decision of US President Grover Cleveland. Initially, it was considered to hold parades in order to give the people an opportunity to express their gratitude for the work of trade union and labor organizations.

 

In Japan

Labor Day is celebrated on 23 November. The Japanese are grateful to each other for the help they provide for the development of society. The holiday unites all types of work. People arrange exhibitions where the winners receive prizes.

 

A historical fact

International Workers' Day was established in July 1889 by the Paris Congress of the Second International to commemorate the performance of the workers of Chicago on May 1, 1886. Among the first countries that celebrated the holiday in 1890 were France and Germany.

 

Nowadays

In Germany

Representatives of various political parties confront in the center of Berlin on May 1. There are police patrols on the streets on this day.

 

In France

One can’t do without folk processions during this day. People, however, take their time not to arrange pickets, but to go to flower shops. The main symbol of May Day is lilies of the valley; bouquets are given to loved ones for good luck.

 

In Sweden

This country joined the celebration of the International Workers' Day in its own way. Since 1908, May 1 is known as White Chamomile Day. People gather in parks, dance in circles, make shows, weave wreaths, and decorate their clothes with chamomile. Money from flower sales goes to treat workers that have tuberculosis.

 

In China

Labor Day is also a day off. Best factories workers are being rewarded on this day, and political leaders speak out to the people. The holiday goes on with picnics and ends with festive concerts.

 

In Republic of South Africa

It is the official holiday there, supported by the authorities. Festivities include the participation of professional musicians and amateur groups. People organize exhibitions of folk art and of achievements of the national economy and art.

 

In Russia

There are peaceful demonstrations, cities are decorated with flags and balloons. Festive events are held at the concert venues. People walk in parks, gather for picnics, or go out of town: the time of holidays and summer cottages begins.

May Day was considered a symbol of revolution, irreconcilable class struggle for a long time. These days, it is the Spring and Labor Day.

 

In Spain

May 1 is Labor Day, which is called Green Santiago among people. It is the holiday of lovers and flowers. Girls walk, crowned with roses and carnations, accompanied by lovers singing praises of them.

 

In Greece

With no thoughts about the workers and their solidarity, children start their search for the first spring swallows early in the morning. When they find a bird, they walk along the houses, sing songs, and receive treats.

 

In Canada

This official day off is used for rest and fun. Alongside the state Labor Day, Canadians celebrate an ethnic holiday - the Day of the Gopher. The first people who celebrated this date were the Indians of the province of Saskatchewan several centuries ago.

 

In Great Britain

May 1 is an official day off - Labor Day - but in some regions of the kingdom, celebrations are organized for a different reason: people honor the god of fertility and the sun, Belenes. Over time, the holiday turned into a large-scale fire festival.

 

In Finland

May 1, or Labor Day, is an official day off in this country. For Finns, it is also a reason to celebrate Wappu, the student festival. Festivities begin during the night of April 30 to May 1. There are balloons, flags, and music everywhere. Young people put on white caps, which is a symbol of graduation, open champagne, and loudly congratulate each other.

 

All around the world, Labor Day has become deeply rooted in the hearts and minds of people and filled with bright colors as time went on.