Labour Day, also known as International Workers' Day, is a public holiday in Greece celebrated on the first day of May. It commemorates the historic struggle and contribution of working men and women worldwide. Social and economic achievements, such as securing the 8-hour work day, banning child labor, and gaining the right to fair working conditions and pay, are recognized.
In Greece, the tradition on May Day, or 'Protomagia', merges with the ancient festival of Anthesteria, during which people celebrate the arrival of Spring. Labour Day is often marked by outdoor excursions and the gathering of seasonal flowers, which are used to create intricate wreaths hung on houses' doors until midsummer. It's commonly spent with friends and family, in tune with nature.
The day also sees its fair share of protests and marches organized by labor unions, fighting for fair wages and better working conditions. The day serves as a reminder that the worker's struggle continues, with recent years witnessing increased unrest and strikes over austerity measures and labor issues. Despite this, Labour Day in Greece continues to reflect the balance between a celebration of Spring and worker's rights.