Labour Day, known locally as Praznik rada, is celebrated annually on May 1st in Croatia, as in many other countries around the world. It is a public holiday to honor workers and the labour movement. Labour Day has its origins in the late 19th-century labour movement, which fought for eight hours for work, eight hours for rest, and eight hours for what we will, a slogan that highlights the importance of balanced work and leisure time.
The Croatians celebrate Labour Day in the traditional European fashion, with trades and union marches held on the morning of May 1st in many cities across the country. At these marches, union members carry banners and signs supporting workers' rights, and speeches are often given by union leaders and political figures. Despite its serious and political undertones, Labour Day is also a time for relaxation and family gatherings.
On this day, Croatians often get together with family and friends for picnics and barbecues in the great outdoors. This participation in communal feasting and enjoyment serves as a reminder of the social and societal successes that have been achieved due to the labour movement. The public holiday is often extended into a long weekend, allowing Croatians to rest and spend quality time with loved ones, aligning well with the day's focus on work-life balance.