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May 1: Labour Day in Scandinavia
Annual Event & Public Holiday on May 1

By , About.com Guide

Folkets Park in Malmo

Folkets Park in Malmo

Frederik Tellerup © Malmö Turism
Labour Day in Scandinavia (also called May Day) takes place on May 1 every year, following Walpurgis Night on April 30.

Labour Day in Scandinavia is a celebrated public holiday - and quite visible. Visitors can see lots of festivities, parades, and other celebrations every year on the first of May in Scandinavia when locals celebrate Labour Day. You'll find special events in every city on this day.

In Sweden, Labour Day on May 1 is the only national holiday unrelated to the church. Most schools have special events on this day, and Scandinavian families often use this day to enjoy a summer-y picnic after the long winter.

Many Walpurgis Night celebrations continue into Labour Day from the night before Labour Day, April 30.

Mainly, Scandinavia celebrates Labour Day as a welcome of the summer season, leading into an array of local events and warmer weather in Scandinavia.

Since Labour Day - May 1 - is a public holiday in Scandinavia, make sure business closures and transportation schedules will not negatively affect your travel plans.

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