In Italy, Labour Day or 'Festa dei Lavoratori' is a national public holiday held on the 1st of May each year. The day is set aside to celebrate workers and their achievements. This holiday has its roots in the eight-hour day movement, which advocated eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest.
While the day is celebrated across the globe, in Italy, Labour Day has been observed as a national holiday since 1890, a few years after it started in the United States. The day is often marked by parades, rallies, and speeches from union leaders and political figures. It's also synonymous with the 'Concerto del Primo Maggio', an open-air concert held in Rome that's attended by hundreds of thousands of people every year.
Despite its global significance, the day has a distinct flavour in Italy due to the country's rich historical labour struggles. It is a reminder of the sacrifices and contributions made by the working class to the development and progress of the country. From factory workers to farmers, teachers to transport workers, all are celebrated for their vital role in society.