Labour Day in Portugal honors the achievements and rights of workers. It has roots in the international labor movement advocating for the eight-hour workday. Banned during Portugal's dictatorship, it regained importance after the Carnation Revolution of 1974, symbolizing both workers' freedom and democracy.

When is Labour Day?

Labour Day in Portugal 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 origins of Labour Day go back to the late 19th century, when workers around the world began to demand better working conditions, fair wages, and the eight-hour workday. The movement gained international recognition after the Haymarket affair in Chicago (1886), where workers striking for labor rights faced violent repression. In 1889, the Second International declared May 1 as International Workers' Day, inspiring demonstrations across Europe and beyond.

The first Labour Day celebration in Portugal took place on May 1, 1890, organized by trade unions and socialist groups in Lisbon and Porto. These early events focused on workers' unity, social justice, and political reform, including demands for shorter work hours and better living conditions. However, the movement was often suppressed by authorities, and celebrations were sometimes banned or heavily monitored, especially under conservative governments.

After the military coup of 1926, Portugal fell under the Estado Novo regime led by António de Oliveira Salazar. During this dictatorship, which lasted nearly five decades, May 1 celebrations were outlawed, as the regime promoted its own corporatist labor system that discouraged free unions and strikes.

The government replaced Labour Day with the "Day of the Mother and the Homeland" to shift focus away from worker solidarity and toward nationalist propaganda. Despite this, underground movements and unions continued to observe May 1 secretly.

On April 25, 1974, the Carnation Revolution peacefully overthrew the Estado Novo dictatorship, ending decades of repression. Just six days later, on May 1, 1974, Labour Day was celebrated freely for the first time in nearly 50 years. The event symbolized not only the return of workers' freedoms but also the rebirth of Portuguese democracy.

Since 1974, May 1 has been an official national holiday in Portugal. Today, Labour Day in Portugal stands as both a tribute to the labor movement and a celebration of democracy.