Labor Day / May Day in Italy

Many Italians commemorate the labor union movement’s social and economic achievements on Labor Day. It is a nationwide public holiday in Italy on May 1 each year.

Workers' rights and conditions are still being raised via protests and demonstrations in countries such as Italy on Labor Day.

©iStockphoto.com/Rahul Sengupta

What do people do?

Many people in Italy spend Labor Day, also known as La Festa dei Lavoratori or Festa del Lavoro, by:

• Attending concerts in cities such as Rome.
• Catching up with friends and family.
• Public demonstrations or protest to improve workers’ rights and conditions.

Many Italians use Labor Day as a day of rest.

Public life

Labour Day is a nationwide public holiday in Italy. Organizations and businesses that are closed include:

• Government offices.
• Post offices.
• Banks.
• Schools and other educational institutions.

Transport options, such as taxis, rail services between major cities and major long-route bus lines, are available but travelers are advised to check first with local transport authorities.

Background

The first Labor Day celebration in Italy was in the late 1800s to recognize workers’ achievements in fighting for their rights. Farmers and other workers traditionally took the day off to eat, socialize and dance on May 1. It was cancelled for about 20 years in the early 20th century but was reintroduced in 1945. Labor Day is celebrated in many other countries globally.

About Labor Day / May Day in other countries

Labor Day / May Day Observances

Other holidays in May 2013 in Italy