German Labor Day observed May 1 Published April 28, 2015 By Iris Reiff 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- This Friday, May 1, 2015, is German Labor Day, which is a federal German holiday. German people will be out and about with families and friends, participating in walks and outings. Some folks will use the day to go fishing, bike riding or just enjoy a party or barbecue with friends in the back yard. The night prior to German Labor Day is associated with tradition, called Hexennacht or Witches Night. This tradition entails a number of different activities. Almost every community in Germany will set up their own May pole, April 30. It is typically the local fire department that brings the tree into town on a tractor, setting it up in the heart of the community. The May pole or May tree is a symbol of freedom and also a symbol of prestige to the community. As such, it is guarded around the clock by young people until May 1. Parties are often held around the tree. Local guesthouses invite to special "Dancing into May" celebrations. Another tradition associated with German Labor Day features the disappearing of lose items from people's property. While it is not allowed for people to steal items, young children may pick up items such as flower pots or garden chairs or decoration or other items they can find. They may also make them disappear from one place and make them show up somewhere else, like a neighbors' roof. The witches are usually young children or teenagers from the community. It's very common for the "witches" to decorate peoples' houses, bushes and sometimes cars with toilet paper. In any case, it is advisable to not leave any lose items outside the door on Witches Night. If possible, people should also try to park their cars inside their garage for the night. Vandalism is not supposed to be part of the May Day traditions and must be reported to the German Polizei, if observed or as it happens.