May 11 маяThere are several public holidays in spring and May Day is one of them. Everyone knows that it’s an International Worker’s Day. In some countries the holiday is known as the Labor Day. It’s celebrated almost everywhere except Northern American countries. However, in Canada and the United States Labor Day is celebrated in September. History of this holiday dates back to the late 19th century when various labor movements appeared worldwide. It is also worth mentioning that May 1st was an important day at pre-Christian times. Ancient Romans had a festival called Floralia which honored the goddess of flowers. It fell on April 27th and had been celebrated with special festivities. In some pagan cultures May 1st was observed as the first day of summer. Today, it’s a major holiday in Russia and former USSR countries, which denotes spring and labor in their very essence. On this day, adults don’t work and children can skip school. However, they all participate in celebratory marching and parades, which start in the morning and concerts or various performances that take place in the evening. In many larger cities local authorities shoot fireworks. May 1st is loved by nearly everyone. Children enjoy the entertaining activities arranged for them, adults like being a part of festive movement in the streets, senior citizens like watching the parades. The biggest celebration is traditionally held on the Red Square. Thousands of people gather in the center of Moscow on this day. They march with flags, banners and colourful ribbons. During this event you can feel the festive atmosphere in the air.