Labour Day in Italy is a national holiday dedicated to workers' rights and social achievements. Rooted in the late 19th-century labor movement, it honors the struggles for fair wages, better conditions, and the eight-hour workday. Today, Italians mark the day with parades, demonstrations and concerts, the most famous being the free "Concerto del Primo Maggio" in Rome's Piazza San Giovanni, bringing together music, solidarity, and celebration of social progress.

When is Labour Day?

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

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

The History of Labour Day?

Labour Day on May 1 has its roots in the international workers' movement of the late 19th century. It commemorates the struggle for an eight-hour workday, especially the 1886 Haymarket affair in Chicago, where workers were killed during strikes for fair conditions. Inspired by these events, workers' organizations across Europe, including Italy, began observing May 1 as a day of protest and solidarity.

Italy first celebrated Labour Day in 1890, following a decision by the Second International. The day quickly became associated with workers' rights, social justice, and political activism, particularly among socialist and trade union movements. Demonstrations, rallies, and strikes were common in Italian cities, often met with opposition from authorities in the early years.

Under Mussolini's Fascist regime (1922–1943), Labour Day was abolished because of its association with socialism and workers' movements. In 1923, the regime replaced it with the "Festival of Work and Corporative Concord" on April 21, tied to the founding of Rome, a symbol of nationalism rather than workers' rights.

With the fall of Fascism in 1945, Labour Day on May 1 was restored as a public holiday in Italy. It once again became a central day for trade unions, workers, and left-wing movements, symbolizing liberation, solidarity and social progress.

Labour Day in Italy represents workers' struggles and achievements, the ongoing fight for fair labor rights, and the values of solidarity, democracy, and social justice.