In the decree published in the Official Gazette of the Democratic Federal Yugoslavia, signed by President Josip Broz Tito in 1945, it is stated:
“May 1st is declared a public holiday. On that day, government offices, state and private institutions, and enterprises will not operate. All shops must be closed on May 1st.”
Labor Day in Yugoslavia was celebrated with programs and festivities in the streets of the cities. The achievements of the working class — the pillar of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia — were promoted, and the gatherings were attended by the highest state officials, including President Tito himself.
The beginnings of the May Day celebration as we know it today date back to the 1960s. That was when the tradition of the May Day morning gathering (prvomajski uranak) became established: the evening before, campfires were lit around which people would gather from the early morning hours.
During the 1970s, the focus shifted from parades to barbecuing in nature. It became popular to drive to a meadow, roast a lamb or grill ćevapi, open all the car doors, and play music.
Because of its social nature, May 1st became, along with Republic Day and New Year’s, one of the most beloved Yugoslav holidays.
When the holiday coincided with weekends, workers often got to enjoy an extended mini-vacation. This gave rise to the tradition of union-organized May Day trips, as well as family shopping excursions — the most popular destination being Trieste.
