From Ljubljana to Tirana – Labor Day in the rhythm of barbecue and socializing

May 1st, better known as International Workers’ Day, is celebrated worldwide as a day dedicated to workers and their fight for rights. Its roots go back to the late 19th century, when workers across the United States and Europe began organizing to demand better working conditions, most notably, the eight-hour workday. One of the most prominent events was the bloody protest in Chicago in 1886, known as the Haymarket Massacre, which later became a symbol of the labor movement and the main reason May 1st is commemorated.

In the former Yugoslavia, this day carried a strong symbolic weight: it was celebrated with slogans, parades, organized workers’ breakfasts, and mass outings. Today, although the ideological tone is not as prominent, International Workers’ Day remains a time of togetherness, rest, and a reminder of the value of human labor. Let’s take a look at how it’s celebrated across the Adria region:

SLOVENIA – BONFIRES, MUSIC, AND WORKERS’ BREAKFAST

In Slovenia, May  1st is a national holiday celebrated over two days—May 1st and 2nd. Traditionally, festivities begin on the evening of April 30th with the lighting of kresovi—large bonfires that symbolize the arrival of spring and worker solidarity. The most famous celebration occurs at Rožnik Hill above Ljubljana, where unionists, musicians, and citizens gather around the fire for speeches, music, and a warm, festive atmosphere.

The following morning, across the country, the so-called prvomajski zajtrk (May Day breakfast) is served—usually free and consisting of bread, sausage, mustard, and either wine or juice. The day is filled with nature, music, and relaxed social gatherings.

Ljubljana. Photo: kasto Depositphotos

CROATIA – BEAN STEW, BARBECUE, AND NATURE OUTINGS

In Croatia, May 1st is a public holiday, and the traditional celebration is simply unimaginable without one key element—grah, that is, bean stew. In major cities like Zagreb, Split, Rijeka, and Osijek, local authorities and trade unions organize free servings of stew, concerts, and various outdoor activities. Zagreb’s Maksimir park, for instance, welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each year.

Beyond that, Croatians love to spend the day on outings in nature, enjoying barbecue and a laid-back atmosphere. Some would say that May 1st is Croatia’s most “grassroots” holiday—less about politics, and more about the smell of grilled meat and the sound of laughter.

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – OUTINGS, BARBECUE, AND REFLECTION

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, May 1st is one of the rare holidays that’s almost universally celebrated across both entities. People flock to popular picnic spots—from Vrelo Bosne to Banj brdo, from Mostar’s outskirts to the mountains near Tuzla. Barbecue is the order of the day, accompanied by lively music, beer, and homemade rakija.

However, in cities with an industrial legacy, such as Tuzla and Zenica, trade unions still use this day to draw attention to workers’ issues—unpaid wages, poor working conditions, or the continuing emigration of the workforce.

MONTENEGRO – A HOLIDAY UNDER THE OPEN SKY

In Montenegro, May 1st is also celebrated over two days. The most important part of the celebration is getting out into nature. From the picnic areas along the Morača and Lake Skadar, to the hills above Kotor, people traditionally organize family gatherings, often accompanied by live music.

In Kotor, for example, there’s the May Day Fest on Vrmac, which features local food, wine, games, and concerts. Although the voice of trade unions can still be heard, it’s far quieter than the chirping of birds and the clinking of glasses under the open sky.

ALBANIA – QUIET PROTESTS AND A DAY OF REST

In Albania, May 1st is a national holiday, but its celebration is quieter than in the rest of the region. During the communist era, it was marked by grand parades and political speeches. Today, it’s primarily seen as a day of rest, though trade unions and NGOs occasionally organize protests, especially in Tirana, to highlight labor issues and the emigration of young people.

For most citizens, however, it’s simply a chance to pause and relax—some spend it at home, others head into nature, and many enjoy the day in cafes.

Bike ride in Albania, Photo: PantherMediaSeller Depositphotos

HAPPY LABOR DAY!

No matter where you are or how you celebrate it, May 1st is a chance to stop, look around, and appreciate your work – and the work of others. It’s not just “another day off,” but a reminder that rights didn’t fall from the sky, they were earned. So celebrate it the way you know how – in nature, with the people you love, with good food, and even better spirits.

We hope most of you managed to get an extended weekend!