Spring and Labour Day
In the former Soviet Union, 1 May was International Workers' Day and was celebrated with huge parades in cities like Moscow. Though the celebrations are low-key nowadays, several groups march on that day to protest grievances the workers have. Celebrations of May 1 lost their political meaning in Russia after 1991. Some political parties and labor unions may have demonstrations on this day. Many Russians use this public holiday to relax. Some may go on a retreat to their country homes (called dachas) to work in the garden or spend time with their families. It is also common for people to have picnics or barbecues. Men may give spring flowers, especially tulips and lilacs, to women, and parents may buy balloons and ice-cream to their children to celebrate the end of the cold season in Russia.
Spring and Labor Day is a public holiday in Russia. Most banks, public buildings and educational institutions are closed on this day. If May 1 falls on a weekend, the public holiday usually moves to the following Monday. Public transport routes may vary in the case of demonstrations in a city or town.
The most common symbols of Spring and Labor Day are:
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Flowers, especially tulips and lilacs – symbols of late spring.
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Blooming branches of fruit trees – a symbol of approaching summer.
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Balloons – a symbol of celebration.
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