Labour Day in Brazil honors workers and their contributions to the nation's progress. The holiday reflects both social achievements and ongoing struggles for workers' rights. Introduced in the late 19th century and officially recognized in 1925, it became a symbol of unity and labor solidarity.

When is Labour Day?

Labour Day in Brazil is celebrated on May 1 every year.

The following is the list of Labour Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Labour Day?

The holiday traces its origins to the international labor movement of the late 19th century, inspired by the Haymarket affair in Chicago (1886), where workers protested for the eight-hour workday. The date was adopted by labor organizations worldwide as a symbol of workers' unity and rights.

In Brazil, the early observance of May 1 began in the late 1800s, especially in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, where industrialization was creating a new working class. Workers began organizing demonstrations, rallies and strikes demanding better wages, shorter working hours and improved conditions.

In 1925, under President Artur Bernardes, May 1 was officially declared a national holiday. However, it was during the presidency of Getúlio Vargas (1930–1945) that Labour Day became deeply institutionalized as part of Brazil's political and social identity.

Vargas, who positioned himself as the "father of the workers", used May 1 as a day to promote labor reforms and government achievements. Under his rule, key labor laws were established, including the Consolidação das Leis do Trabalho (CLT) in 1943, which regulated working hours, wages, vacation rights and labor protections, many of which still form the foundation of Brazilian labor law today.

Throughout the 20th century, May 1 evolved from a day of protest into a national celebration of labor and citizenship, blending political messaging, cultural festivities, and public recognition of workers' contributions. Under the military regime (1964–1985), the holiday's tone became more controlled and ceremonial, but with the return of democracy, it regained its spirit of activism and solidarity.

Today, Labour Day in Brazil remains both festive and reflective. The holiday also serves as a platform for addressing ongoing issues such as economic inequality, job security, and social rights, continuing the legacy of the early labor movement.