Workers' Day (Public Holiday)

Workers of the world unite for South African national solidarity on this Public Holiday

Since the first democratic elections in 1994, Workers’ Day has been celebrated on the 1st of May every year. Acceptance of this day as a public holiday became a rallying point for workers and their trade unions throughout the Apartheid years.

Workers' Day originates from the historical struggles of workers and their trade unions internationally for solidarity between working people in their struggles to win fair employment standards, and more importantly, establish a culture of human and worker rights.

Internationally it’s also called International Workers Day or Mayday. In South Africa this public holiday is celebrated by large rallies and marches organised by trade union movements.

Molo Says: This is very much a “peoples” holiday in South Africa. Why not learn about the people of Cape Town interesting social projects in Cape Town and things to do in the Townships with CapeTownMagazine.com.

Read about all the other South African Public Holidays:

Youth Day National Women's Day Heritage Day Day of Reconciliation Christmas Day Day of Goodwill New Years Day Human Rights Day Good Friday Family Day Freedom Day

Remember: The best things to do, celebrations and events in Cape Town and the Western Cape on Worker's Day you will always find in our Editor's Picks every month!

Molo says: "Ah! don't we all deserve this day - for all of you that need a break from all the hard work you put in - this day is to show that all of the work does not go unnoticed."