Labor Day / May Day in France

Date: May 1st

History:

Labor Day, also known as May Day or "Fête du Travail" in France, has its origins in the labor union movements of the 19th century. The date was chosen to commemorate the Haymarket affair in Chicago, where a peaceful rally supporting workers led to a violent clash with police on May 4, 1886. The Second International, an organization of socialist and labor parties, marked May 1st as a day of international proletarian solidarity from 1891.

Traditions:

• Lily of the Valley: A key tradition involves the giving of "muguet" (lily of the valley) flowers to loved ones. This custom supposedly dates back to King Charles IX, who received lily of the valley as a lucky charm and decided to offer them each year to the ladies of his court.

• Parades and Demonstrations: Labor unions organize parades and demonstrations in cities across France. These events are both a celebration of workers' rights and an opportunity for expressing current social and economic concerns.

• Public Holiday: It is a public holiday; thus, most businesses are closed. People enjoy a day off work and use this time to relax or participate in local celebrations.

• Worker's Rights Recognition: There is often a focus on promoting workers' rights and social justice causes.

What People Do:

• Attend demonstrations or marches organized by labor groups.
• Spend time with family or friends.
• Offer lily of the valley flowers to close acquaintances.
• Enjoy outdoor activities if weather permits, as it signals the approach of spring.

May Day serves as both a spring celebration and an important day for labor rights recognition in France.