Labour Day in Brazil
View the global Labour Day guide
Labour Day is observed throughout Brazil on 1 May. Official calendars use Dia Mundial do Trabalho, while Dia do Trabalho and Dia do Trabalhador are also common. It is a national public holiday focused on workers, labour rights and Brazil's employment history.
Labour Day
Holiday
Brazil
Country
2026
Next Date Year
Friday
Day
May
01
May 1, 2026
Labour Day Date in Brazil
Date
May 1, 2026
Day
Friday
Public Holiday
Yes
Bank Holiday
No
Date Confirmed
Yes
Labour Day Dates in Brazil
Labour Day 2026
- Confirmed Workers Day 2026 source: https://github.com/vacanza/holidays/tree/dev/holidays/countries; verification: CONSENSUS_DATE
Labour Day 2027
- Confirmed Workers Day 2027 source: https://github.com/vacanza/holidays/tree/dev/holidays/countries; verification: CONSENSUS_DATE
Labour Day 2028
- Confirmed Workers Day 2028 seed from audited 2026/2027 recurrence; verification: DETERMINISTIC_FIXED
History of Labour Day
Brazil made 1 May an official holiday in the 1920s. During the Getúlio Vargas era, the date became closely associated with state labour policy and announcements affecting workers; the Consolidation of Labour Laws (CLT) was enacted on 1 May 1943. Today, Law 662/1949, as amended, expressly lists 1 May as a national holiday.
Importance of Labour Day
The holiday is a focal point for debate about wages, employment, working conditions and social protection. Its specifically Brazilian meaning reflects both independent labour organising and the later use of 1 May by the Vargas government to present labour legislation and policy.
How Labour Day Is Celebrated in Brazil
Trade unions and social movements may organise rallies, speeches and cultural events, while governments and political leaders issue labour-policy messages. For many residents it is also a day for family, leisure or a short trip. Events vary by city and year.
Office Impact
Federal government bodies close except for essential services, and many private workplaces also suspend normal operations. Healthcare, hospitality, transport and some shops may operate under holiday rosters and applicable labour agreements.
Bank Impact
FEBRABAN's 2026 calendar lists 1 May as a national banking holiday. Branches close; PIX, cards, ATMs and online services remain available, but transactions requiring a banking business day may wait until the next one.
School Impact
Schools and universities generally close for the national holiday. Because academic calendars and make-up requirements vary, students should verify any adjacent closure or extended weekend with their institution.
Travel Information
When 1 May falls near a weekend, demand can rise on highways, buses and domestic routes. Rallies or concerts may alter traffic in central city areas. Check event notices and transport timetables before travelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Labour Day in Brazil?
It is on 1 May every year.
What is it called in Portuguese?
Dia Mundial do Trabalho, Dia do Trabalho and Dia do Trabalhador are used.
Is 1 May a national public holiday?
Yes. It is expressly listed in federal holiday law.
Are banks and federal offices closed?
Yes, apart from essential public services; bank branches also close.