Learn all about the First of May
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| Hello, and welcome to the "Culture Class—Holidays in the Czech Republic" series at CzechClass101.com. In this series, we explore the history and traditions behind Czech holidays and observances. I’m Michael, and you're listening to Lesson 24, First of May—První máj. |
| The official name of May Day is Labor Day. It has been celebrated in the Czech Republic since 1890 as a sign of solidarity with the workers in the US city of Chicago. During a demonstration in 1886, crowds of demonstrators were shot at. Today’s commemoration of the day comes from a view that is much different than what you’d expect based on the events that took place nearly a century and a half ago. |
| Now, before we go into more detail, do you know the answer to the following question? |
| What should Czechs in love definitely do during May Day? |
| If you don't already know, you’re about to find out, so stay tuned! |
| "Byl první máj, byl lásky čas…" or "It was the first of May, the time of love… ." |
| So begins one of the most famous Czech poems associated with May Day. The poem speaks of the future, and perhaps more substantially, dedicates the Czech May Day holiday to lovers. |
| Lovers, or zamilovaní, therefore, often spend this holiday together. Couples spend May Day by taking long walks and admiring the blooming cherry trees as they pass beneath them. |
| The second face of May Day is a political one. There are rallies, or manifestace, on May Day where speakers recall long-time trade union struggles for workers' rights and a better future. During the socialist regime, these rallies were mandatory for all citizens, but now, thankfully, participation is voluntary. |
| May Day is actually a popular date for holding political demonstrations of any kind. Oftentimes, several demonstrations from opposite ends of the political spectrum will take place simultaneously at the same place. |
| Now it's time to answer our quiz question— |
| What should Czechs in love definitely do during May Day? |
| On May Day, as a celebration of love, the most common custom is to kiss a girl under a blooming cherry tree, or rozkvetlou třešní, so that her love, beauty, and youth do not fade away. |
| Well listeners, how was this lesson? Did you learn something new? |
| Do you celebrate May Day in your country as well? |
| Leave a comment telling us on CzechClass101.com, and I’ll see you in the next lesson! |
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