Every year, around the world on May 1, we observe International Workers’ Day, also known as May Day.
Although in Canada we recognize the first Monday of September as Labour Day, many places around the world acknowledge May 1 as their “Labour Day.”
International Workers’ Day’s origins date back to the late 19th century and has its roots as a movement as part of a campaign to establish the 8-hour workday.
On May 1, 1886, workers in cities across the United States began a general strike to fight for that cause. It would culminate in a bloody, violent clash between protesters and police on May 4 in Chicago’s Haymarket Square, now referred to as the Haymarket Affair or the Haymarket Riot.
Since then, May 1 has become a symbol of the fight for workers’ rights and the origins of International Workers’ Day.
We have a page on our website to share more about the history of International Workers’ Day and Labour Day and how the two all tie together.
We invite you to check out the page and then take part in our International Workers’ Day Trivia Contest. All entries will be entered into a draw to win one of five MoveUP prize packs!
Contest closes on Monday, May 4.
May Day events
Want to immerse yourself even more in International Workers’ Day? Check out some of these upcoming events taking place in the BC Lower Mainland.
Vancouver Labor Temple Celebration
Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
Location: 411 Dunsmuir Street, Vancouver
Time: 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The BC Labour Heritage Centre, Vancouver Heritage Foundation, CUPE Metro Vancouver District Council, 411 Seniors Centre Society, and the VDLC May Day Celebration invite you to recognize the Vancouver Labor Temple’s history and designation as part of the Places That Matter registry.
Celebrate International Workers’ Day with the VDLC
Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
Location: Victory Square (200 W. Hastings) followed by the Vancouver Russian Hall (600 Campbell Ave.)
Time: Rally at 4 p.m., community celebration from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Join the Vancouver & District Labour Council to celebrate International Workers’ Day (May Day) this year with a march, a rally, and an event at the Russian Hall!
The event will feature speakers, music, comedy, food, union & community booths, and more! All welcome/ all ages.
MoveUP is one of the proud sponsors of this event.
