📅

Days Until May 1st

days remaining
May 1st, 2026

Last reviewed on May 7, 2026.

About May 1st

May 1st is one of 365 days on the calendar — and like every date, it has its own mix of facts, observances, and history. May 1st is celebrated as International Workers' Day (May Day) in 66 countries worldwide, commemorating labor movements and workers' rights. The countdown below shows how many days remain until the next May 1st, with notes on what the date is known for, the traditions associated with it, and notable events that have happened on this day.

📚 Interesting Facts

May 1st is celebrated as International Workers' Day (May Day) in 66 countries worldwide, commemorating labor movements and workers' rights

The date is day 121 of the year (122 in leap years), with 244 days remaining until the end of the year

People born on May 1st are Taurus, known for being practical, reliable, and devoted

In the Northern Hemisphere, May 1st marks the height of spring with ancient pagan festivals celebrating fertility and renewal

The Empire State Building was officially opened on this date in 1931, becoming the world's tallest building at the time

🎊 Traditions & Celebrations

International Workers' Day celebrates labor movements worldwide with parades, demonstrations, and gatherings honoring workers' rights and the eight-hour workday

May Day traditions include dancing around the Maypole, crowning the May Queen, and celebrating spring with flowers and festivities

Labor unions organize rallies and marches to advocate for workers' rights, fair wages, and improved working conditions

In many European countries, May 1st is a public holiday where people enjoy outdoor activities and family gatherings

The day commemorates the Haymarket Affair of 1886 in Chicago, honoring those who fought for the eight-hour workday

📜 Historical Events on This Day

1707

The Kingdom of Great Britain was formed through the union of England and Scotland under the Acts of Union

1786

The premiere of Mozart's opera 'The Marriage of Figaro' took place in Vienna, Austria

1840

The Penny Black, the world's first adhesive postage stamp, was issued in the United Kingdom

1886

Over 300,000 workers across the United States went on strike demanding an eight-hour workday, marking the first May Day celebration

1931

President Herbert Hoover officially opened the Empire State Building in New York City, then the world's tallest building

1941

The film 'Citizen Kane,' directed by Orson Welles, premiered in New York City and is considered one of the greatest films ever made

1960

A Soviet surface-to-air missile shot down an American U-2 spy plane piloted by Francis Gary Powers over Soviet territory

1961

Fidel Castro declared Cuba a socialist nation and abolished democratic elections

2004

The European Union expanded to include 10 new member countries: Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia

2011

Pope John Paul II was beatified by Pope Benedict XVI in Vatican City, drawing hundreds of thousands of pilgrims

Why Count Down to May 1st?

Whether you're planning ahead, celebrating a tradition, or marking a personal milestone, tracking the countdown to May 1st helps you prepare and build anticipation. Use CountDay.org to:

  • Never miss important dates and plan accordingly
  • Build excitement as the day approaches
  • Share the countdown with friends and family
  • Set reminders and prepare for celebrations
  • Track multiple countdowns in one convenient place