May Day in Gibraltar combines the spirit of International Workers' Day with a springtime festival for the whole community. It honors workers' rights and social unity, while also featuring live entertainment, family activities and cultural performances.

When is May Day?

May Day in Gibraltar is celebrated on May 1 every year.

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

The History of May Day?

May Day originated in the late 19th century as part of the international labor movement. It commemorates the struggle for workers' rights, particularly the campaign for the eight-hour workday, following the Haymarket affair in Chicago (1886).

In many countries, including Gibraltar's neighboring Spain and the United Kingdom, May 1 became recognized as International Workers' Day or Labour Day, symbolizing solidarity and social progress.

Gibraltar, as a British Overseas Territory, historically followed the UK's system of bank and public holidays. However, over time, the community began to give May 1 a local identity, reflecting both its British and Mediterranean influences.

In the 20th century, as workers' organizations and trade unions in Gibraltar gained prominence, May Day gradually evolved into a day of recognition for workers' contributions to the territory's economy and public life.

After World War II, Gibraltar underwent major social and economic transformations. The rise of workers' unions gave the labor movement a stronger voice. During the mid-20th century, May Day was increasingly associated with trade union solidarity and public gatherings, though on a smaller scale than in larger European countries.

In the late 20th century, May Day in Gibraltar transformed from a purely labor-focused commemoration into a public celebration for all residents. Today, May Day in Gibraltar is a public holiday celebrated across the territory. It reflects Gibraltar's values of community, inclusion, and celebration of labor, while also marking the arrival of spring.