What is Labour Day called in Germany, where it is observed as a public holiday on May 1?

In Germany, Labour Day is called Tag der Arbeit, meaning “Day of Labour.”

It is observed on May 1 and is a nationwide public holiday. Trade unions traditionally hold rallies and public events, while the date also has a broader cultural identity as May Day. The German name emphasizes work and labor directly rather than using the English word “labour.”

Germany’s May 1 observance developed alongside the international workers’ movement. The date has also been associated with political demonstrations, and its meaning has varied across different periods of German history, including the Nazi era and the division between East and West Germany.

Tag der Arbeit should not be confused with German Unity Day, which is held on October 3. German Unity Day commemorates reunification, whereas Tag der Arbeit is the country’s labor holiday.