For most, Labour Day in Belgium means a longer weekend as employees get a day off on Monday 1 May. However, historically, the day commemorates the historic struggles and gains made by workers.
This will be reflected in some of the events taking place in Brussels. A total of three demonstrations will take place across the region, while festivities will go ahead in others.
The Brussels-Ixelles police zone has announced that, as a result of the protests, traffic disruptions are to be expected across Brussels. "We recommend avoiding the affected areas by car and opt for travelling by public transport."
Meanwhile, public transport operator STIB warned travellers on its website that bus lines 33, 46, 48 and 52 will be disrupted as a result of the actions. "On Monday, follow the info in real time at the stops, on our website and app to see if your tram or bus line is running normally."
What to expect from the demonstrations
The Workers' Party PVDA/PTB will be organising a demonstration on the occasion of Labour Day, calling on the Federal Government to tax the rich.
This demonstration will depart from Place Anneessens in the city centre at 12:30 and walk via Rue de Tournai, then via Place Rouppe, the Midi district, rue des Alexiens and Boulevard de l'Empereur. It is expected to end at 13:00 on the Place de l'Albertine, where speeches will be made.
Another demonstration will see crowds walk from Brussels' Poelaert Square on Monday morning at 11:30, passing through rue aux Laines, rue de Wynants, rue des Minimes, rue de l'Epée, rue Haute, place de la Chapelle, rue de la Chapelle, boulevard de l'Empereur, Cantersteen, Mont des Arts, rue Ravenstein at 12:00, where speeches will be made.
Afterwards, the demonstration will continue down the hill towards trade union FGTB-ABVV's May Day festivities on Mont des Arts, with concerts, debates about social issues and animation for children on the agenda. The Cantersteen next to Central Station will be shut off to traffic.
Finally, another demonstration will take place in the afternoon, departing from carré de Moscou in Saint-Gilles at 15:00. The crowd is expected to pass by boulevard de Waterloo, place Poelaert, rue Haute and place de la Chapelle among others, before arriving on the place du Jeu de Balle in the heart of the Marolles at 16:30.
Here, an "association village" will be set up with tents and various cultural activities will be offered, including a book fair. The activities will be integrated into the other activities offered in the cafés on the square.
Other celebrations
Socialist party One.Brussels will once again organise its free One.May festival on Rue du Marché aux Porcs, in front of youth theatre Bronks. Speeches will be held by Flemish party leader Hannelore Goeman and member Pascal Smet.
The party will then get started, including for kids, with the Fanfakids providing entertainment, alongside Circus Zonder Handen and a 'Tiktok disco party 4 kids & teens'.
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At Brussels' Cinquantenaire Park, a public picnic will be organised, during which several of the park's staff will speak about the tremendous work required to ensure its continued existence. Walks, talks and readings will also be organised.
Finally, be sure to visit the Parvis de Saint-Gilles and the Rue du Fort for a flea market, bouncy castles, a barbecue and concerts.
