May 1 2025 Holiday: What’s Closed on Labour Day in India and Beyond?

May 1st, celebrated as Labour Day or May Day, is not just a symbolic nod to workers worldwide—it’s also a public holiday in many countries, including India, where it significantly affects schools, banks, and various public services.

India: Bank and School Closures Vary by State

In India, Labour Day is a state-specific public holiday, meaning bank closures and school holidays vary across states. Banks in states such as Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal will remain closed on May 1. However, in states where Labour Day is not officially observed, banks may operate as usual.

Schools will also remain shut in many parts of the country. States such as Kerala, Gujarat, Delhi, Punjab, and Telangana have announced holiday closures for educational institutions, recognizing the day’s importance in labor history.

Why May 1 Matters

Labour Day commemorates the efforts and achievements of the working class, rooted in the global movement for an eight-hour workday. While it’s widely celebrated with rallies, awareness drives, and union gatherings, in most Indian cities, it’s a quiet day off work or school, especially for government offices and institutions.

International: A Long Weekend in France

Meanwhile, in France, where May 1 is one of the most significant national holidays, many people are “faire le pont”—a popular French tradition of taking an extra day off to create a long weekend. This year, with May Day falling on a Thursday, some employees are taking Friday off, creating a 4-day break.

Plan Ahead

If you have errands to run or need banking services on May 1, check your local state holiday list. Many services—including courier delivery, post offices, and public transport—may run on limited schedules.