Why is May 1st a Holiday in Chile?
May 1st is recognized in Chile and many countries around the world as Labor Day or Worker’s Day. This is one of Chile’s official holidays and most of the country shuts down.
According to Chile’s Department of Labor, employers can not require employees that typically work Monday to Friday (or Saturday) to work on May 1st.
This offical holiday starts at 9:00pm the night before and ends at 6:00am on May 2nd.
Chilean President Carlos Ibáñez del Campo signed the law that declared May 1st an official Chilean holiday in 1931.
Most public places close down on May 1st so if you are traveling in Chile during that time, plan for a lack of options and even a shortage of public transportation.
May 1st will also bring out protesters that may even spill into riots. If you see any of this activity, stay clear and go the opposite direction.
Posted April 29th, 2009 in Ask Pepe, Culture.
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