Nowadays, we associate the word “”May Day”” with May Day (May 1) celebrations, but the word was originally used to describe outdoor events and gatherings held in May/Spring. This is well illustrated by Pál Szinyei Merse’s painting May Day from 1873. Labour Day (traditionally) May 1 was first made an official holiday in the United States in 1894 – although it is celebrated on the first Monday in September there. Today, May Day is celebrated in 160 countries, commemorating the Haymarket affair that began with a strike by Chicago workers on May 1, 1886. (Pál Szinyei Merse: May Day)