May 1, 2025 trade union demonstration in Paris: detailed itinerary

As on every May 1st, the trade union federation is organizing a major demonstration in Paris. This year, the procession will set off from the Place d'Italie on Thursday May 1, 2025, at 2pm. Find out more about the route.

Every May 1st, there are numerous demonstrations across France to mark Labour Day and International Workers' Day.

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This year, the intersyndicale (CGT, FO, Solidaires and FSU) is planning a joint demonstration under the banner of"peace" and"social justice". "In a period of profound seriousness for democracy, social rights and peace", the intersyndicale reaffirms its determination"for peace, respect for international law" and for"international solidarity with all peoples in struggle", but also for"the repeal of the pension reform", for"an increase in wages, pensions and minimum social benefits" and for"quality public services accessible to all". These were the words of the unions in a press release issued on April 10.

Remember that last year's May 1st demonstrations drew 121,000 participants across France, including 18,000 in Paris, according to the French Ministry of the Interior. The CGT, for its part, announced over 200,000 demonstrators.

The detailed route

The procession will start at 2pm on Thursday May 1, 2025 from Place d'Italie, in the capital's 13th arrondissement, before taking Boulevard de l'Hôpital to Place Valhubert. From there, it's on to the Pont d'Austerlitz and Avenue Ledru-Rollin, before moving on to Avenue Daumesnil and Boulevard Diderot, finishing at Place de la Nation.

The Paris Prefecture of Police has indicated that"traffic control measures will be put in place around the demonstration, around the Place d'Italie and the Place de la Nation, and around the route as the procession progresses", as well as moving vehicles parked on or near the route. It is therefore advisable toavoid the area from 10 a.m. onwards.

The May 1st demonstration in Paris is not only an annual tradition, but also a means of expressing current social and political concerns. It promises to be a large-scale gathering, reflecting the tensions and aspirations of French society.