Labor Day in Ukraine

Labor Day, also known as May Day, is an annual Ukrainian national holiday on May 1 to honor workers’ rights and achievements. Labor Day is a holiday in many countries around the world.

Is Labor Day a Public Holiday?

Labor Day is a public holiday. It is a day off for the general population, and schools and most businesses are closed.

What Do People Do?

Labor Day, or Labour Day, is a day off for many workers in Ukraine. Political gatherings and demonstrations are sometimes organized in some cities during the day. Many people enjoy the warmer weather with outdoor activities on this public holiday, also known as May Day.

Public Life

Labor Day is a national public holiday in Ukraine so many shops, museums, and libraries, as well as government offices and educational institutions are closed.

Background

Labor Day, on May 1, was traditionally a holiday to celebrate the spring, before becoming a day for workers during the 19th century. In the former Soviet Union (which the Ukraine was once a part of), workers and students attended parades, bringing flowers, balloons and posters.