May 1: Labor Day in Italy

In the Netherlands, the first day of May passes silently (we are just working), but May 1 is a real Labor Day in Italy (so they are free). It is therefore a real Party. Then Labor Day. Feast of work, literally translated.

Fare Festa means in Italian, 'not working'. Oggi facciamo festa (Today we have off).

What do Italians actually celebrate on May 1?

Labour day can be interpreted in two ways, namely as a Labor Day, but also as a 'labour festival', so in a certain way, work is a salvation. Of course May 1 is celebrated in Italy as Labor Day, which is why everyone is free.

However, given the ongoing crisis with the accompanying sky-high unemployment, they may soon really start celebrating labor itself. Scarcity changes everyone point of view.

Just a holiday

What are they doing in Italy on this day off? They do what they always do on days off, having an extensive lunch and chatting with family and friends. If the weather is good, the Italians will do this outside, with a barbecue. Some parks and other places in nature are therefore completely full on May 1 with partying families and groups of friends.

Where as a visitor to Italy (in the May holiday) should take into account that many shops, attractions and museums are closed on May 1. Public transport also follows the public holiday scheme. So check carefully whether what you want to visit or view is open if you want to go out on May 1.

In Italy Labor Day is really celebrated because Italy is 'a country built on labour'. As the socialists call it. The day still has political significance, but especially for trade unions and political parties. You may also encounter demonstrations with banners and signs.

The 'ordinary' Italian is not interested in this. He or she is simply enjoying his extra day off.

Mega concert in Rome

Every year in Rome there is a mega concert organized by the trade unions. Hundreds of thousands of people come from all over Italy. Well-known national and international bands perform, occasionally interrupted by a short speech from one of the unions. For several years now, alcohol has not been allowed to be sold. A huge noose for the bars and shops around the concert, but it is hoped to prevent disturbances.

The concert can also be followed on TV and many do.

There is actually no real attention for labour, the future of labor or workers' rights. ma si fa festa!