Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • An international holiday: "May Day" is the first day of May, observed in many countries as a celebration of spring or as International Workers' Day in honor of labor and the working class.

Usage

• "May Day" is always capitalized as it is a proper noun referring to a specific holiday. It is used to mark the date of May 1st.
• It can refer to two distinct observances: the traditional spring festival and the modern labor rights celebration. The context usually makes the specific meaning clear.

Examples

• As a Spring Festival:
  • In many European villages, they celebrate May Day with dancing around a maypole.
  • The tradition of leaving flowers on neighbors' doorsteps is a charming May Day custom.
• As International Workers' Day:
  • The union organized a large parade for May Day.
  • In several countries, May Day is a public holiday dedicated to workers' rights.

Advanced Usage

• "May Day celebrations": Refers to the events and activities held on this day.
  • The city's May Day celebrations include both a folk festival and a political rally.
• Historical Context: The association of May 1st with labor rights originates from the 1886 Haymarket affair in Chicago, which is commemorated as International Workers' Day.

Variants and Related Words

• International Workers' Day: A synonym specifically for the labor observance on May 1st.
• Labour Day: A similar holiday celebrating workers, but in some countries like the United States and Canada, it is observed on the first Monday in September, not on May Day.
• Beltane: A Gaelic traditional festival marking the beginning of summer, often associated with the historical roots of the spring celebration aspect of May Day.

Synonyms

• International Workers' Day: (Specifically for the labor observance)
• Spring Festival: (For the traditional celebration aspect)

Related Phrases

• "May Day parade": A common event, especially for the labor observance.
  • Thousands attended the May Day parade in the capital.
• "May Day bank holiday": In some countries, this day is an official public holiday.
  • All government offices will be closed for the May Day bank holiday.

Noun

1. observed in many countries to celebrate the coming of spring; observed in Russia and related countries in honor of labor