May Day, observed on the 1st of May, is a significant festivity in the calendar of Ireland. It marks the beginning of summer and has ancient Celtic origins where it was traditionally known as Beltane. Rural Irish communities would commonly light Beltane fires to celebrate the lengthening days and warmer temperatures, a tradition that still continues today in some areas.
In contemporary Ireland, May Day is acknowledged as a public holiday where schools, businesses, and governmental agencies close for the day. Many cultural events happen all across Ireland to celebrate the day, these events can range from traditional music festivals and Irish dancing, to parades and nature walks. You may also find various local customs still being practiced, such as the crowning of a May Queen, and creating and displaying May bushes, which are decorated with colourful ribbons and flowers.
Furthermore, May Day is also associated with workers' rights. The day is recognized globally as International Workers’ Day, a day to commemorate the historic struggles and gains made by workers and the labour movement. Many use the occasion to advocate for further rights, fair wages, and improved working conditions. This dual nature of May Day, linking nature and working people, makes it a unique celebration in the cultural fabric of Ireland.