Labour Day
Today is Labour Day!
Historical Context
Labour Day falls on 1 May every year and is one of the 10 official public holidays. The day commemorates the struggle of the workers' movement for better working conditions.
The origin of 1 May as a day of action lies in the Haymarket affair of 1886 in Chicago, where workers went on strike for an eight-hour working day. Three years later, the Second International proclaimed 1 May as the international day of action for workers' rights. The Belgian labour movement was one of the first in the world to answer the call: on 1 May 1890, massive strikes took place in Brussels, Liège and Ghent. The day was officially added to the list of statutory public holidays in 1948.
The three major trade unions (ABVV, ACV and ACLVB) organise marches and rallies in the major cities every year. The 1 May march in Brussels attracts thousands of participants and concludes with speeches by union leaders and politicians. In Liège, the Fête du 1er Mai is a firmly established tradition with a popular festive atmosphere. Beyond its militant character, 1 May is also the unofficial start of barbecue season for many families. The pleasant spring weather is an invitation for outings in the countryside or a relaxed afternoon in the garden.
Regional Traditions
Brussels
The large 1 May march draws thousands of participants through the city centre every year. Union leaders and politicians conclude the march with speeches at the Albertina Square.
Liège
The Fête du 1er Mai in Liège is a firmly established tradition with a popular atmosphere. Street parties with music, food and political debates are organised in the working-class neighbourhoods.
Wallonia
On 1 May, people give sprigs of lily of the valley (muguet) to loved ones to wish happiness for the coming year. The flowers are sold everywhere: at florists, roadside stands and supermarkets.
Flanders
Beyond its militant character, 1 May is the unofficial start of barbecue season for many Flemish families. The pleasant spring weather invites a relaxed afternoon in the garden.
Hasselt
May Eve in Hasselt has been celebrated since 1538. A May Count condemns winter to burning, a May Queen announces spring and a maypole is planted on the Grote Markt. The highlight is the large bonfire in which winter is symbolically burned.