How Europeans celebrate May Day

How Europeans celebrate May Day

Xinhua
04 May 2026, 00:15 GMT+

BRUSSELS, May 3 (Xinhua) -- May 1 is widely celebrated across Europe, with street marches, official ceremonies, and fireworks displays among the many events marking the first weekend of May this year.

In France, a traditional International Workers' Day march is inevitable to show the power of workers and unions.

In Prague, a day to observe the witch culture came before May 1. It is a traditional custom of warding off evil and welcoming spring, attracting many visitors each year.

In Helsinki, Finland, people celebrated May Day, or "Vappu" in Finnish, with music and dances.

In Malta, the coming of May Day is always celebrated with the Malta International Fireworks Festival at the Grand Harbour on the eve.

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