Why are 1 May and 3 May often celebrated together?

Labour Day (1 May) and Constitution Day (3 May) fall two days apart, creating a long weekend most years. Many take 2 May off (Flag Day) to bridge them.

No, but it is the Day of the Polish Flag (Dzień Flagi RP); many display flags. Taking leave on 2 May makes a 5-day break.

Constitution Day (3 May) in Poland

Święto Konstytucji 3 Maja — the 1791 constitution, parades, and the long weekend with Labour Day.

Updated 2026-01-20 · 1 min read

What it marks

The Constitution of 3 May 1791 was Europe's first modern written constitution and a symbol of Polish reform before the final partition. The holiday was restored in 1990 after communism.

How it is observed

Ceremonies at the Royal Castle and Belweder in Warsaw.
Military and school parades.
Flag displays on homes and institutions.
Concerts and historical exhibitions.

The long weekend

With 1 May (Labour Day) two days earlier, Poles often take 2 May (Flag Day) as leave to create a 5-day break — a popular travel period called the "majówka".

What's open

Shops closed on 3 May (trade ban).
Public transport on a Sunday/holiday schedule.
Tourist sites busy; many Poles take short trips.

Tips

Display the Polish flag on 2 May if you wish to join the custom.
Book intercity trains/hotels early for the majówka.

FAQ

Why are 1 May and 3 May often celebrated together?: Labour Day (1 May) and Constitution Day (3 May) fall two days apart, creating a long weekend most years. Many take 2 May off (Flag Day) to bridge them.
Is 2 May a holiday?: No, but it is the Day of the Polish Flag (Dzień Flagi RP); many display flags. Taking leave on 2 May makes a 5-day break.