Labor Day 2025: Why Many Countries Celebrate it in May, September and Other Months?

Labor Day is one of the most important holidays to be celebrated in the world. This day is dedicated to commemorating the various contributions made by workers in their daily lives. However, the dates for celebrating Labor Day vary from country to country. Many countries celebrate Labor Day on May 1, which is also known as International Workers’ Day or May. But there are other places (such as the United States and Canada) watching Labor Day on the first Monday in September.

In addition, many countries also have their own labor-salary dates, which are related to historical events or specific cultural practices.

What is the origin of Labor Day?

Labor Day begins with the Labor Movement, which fights for better working conditions, fair wages and the right to work in a safe environment. In the late 19th century, industrialization led to the exploitation of workers, and in many factories, mines and construction sites, long-term, low wages and dangerous conditions were the norm. The Labor movement gained momentum as workers organized protests, strikes and rallies demanded reforms.

In the United States, the first Labor Day was celebrated in New York City in 1882 as part of a march organized by the Central Trade Union. The idea is to create a holiday that will celebrate the working class and show solidarity for workers’ rights. Labor Day has become a formal holiday for many years.

International Workers’ Day (Friday): Global Celebration

Labor Day is in September, and many countries around the world celebrate the worker’s rights on May 1. This day, known as the day of international workers or Mayday. One of the key events leading to Mayday was the Hay Market Incident in Chicago in 1886, where a quiet labor demonstration was held.

To commemorate Haymarket Marders, the Second International Conference on Socialism and Labor Movement announced May 1 as International Workers’ Day, a day of sacrifices made by workers in the struggle for better conditions. Since then, May 1 has been considered a public holiday in many countries, especially in Europe, Latin America and parts of Asia.

Which countries celebrate Labor Day in May?

UK: While the UK also observed Labor Day on May 1, this day is often referred to as the early May holiday, which is similar in meaning.

Germany: Germany is another major country with a strong historical background on this day. The country celebrates Tag der Arbeit (Labor Day), which respects workers and commemorates the struggle for labor rights.

Russia: In Russia and other former Soviet countries, Mayday was once the main celebration of the working class under the Communist regime. The Soviet Union announced the national holiday on May 1, celebrated with a grand parade, showing the unity of workers and the achievements of the Soviet Union.

Mexico: In Mexico, May 1 is also celebrated as Díadel Trabajo (Labor Day), a public holiday designed to honor the workers’ struggle. The day is characterized by parades, speeches from union leaders, and public activities focusing on labor rights.

Why do many countries celebrate Labor Day in September?

In the United States and Canada, Labor Day is observed on the first Monday of September instead of May 1. The reason for choosing this date is several reasons, including the desire to distinguish the holiday from radical political movements already associated with Mayday.

Other countries with different dates

In addition to May 1 and September, some countries also have unique dates of labor celebrations based on major historical events or cultural practices. For example:

Australia: Celebrate Labor Day in Australia based on different dates in the state. In the Victoria and Australian capital regions, eight hours of workday exercise can be observed on the second Monday of March. In other states, Labor Day celebrations may fall on different dates, reflecting local labor history.

New Zealand: New Zealand celebrates Labor Day on the fourth Monday in October, commemorating the achievements of the labor movement and the struggles of workers fighting for better working conditions.

Japan: Kinrō Kanshano Hi was celebrated in Japan on November 23 with a focus on the importance of respecting workers’ efforts and promoting work-life balance.

South Korea: Labor Day observed in South Korea on May 1, but it is not a public holiday. Instead, it was more of a day of protest and activism, where workers marched for better rights, conditions and wages.

In short, Labor Day is a universal celebration of workers’ rights and their contribution to society, but the way it is observed varies greatly between countries. Although May 1 is considered international workers’ day globally, many countries celebrate it with different dates. Regardless of dates, Labor Day remains a powerful reminder of ongoing efforts to improve working conditions, safeguard workers’ rights and celebrate the labor force driving the global economy.