Free Trade Day is observed on May 8 of every year. Free trade is a trade policy that does not restrict imports or exports. You can also think of it as the idea of a free market in the context of international trade. It is predominantly supported by political parties whose ideology is that of economic liberalism. Economic nationalists and left-wing parties advocate for protectionism.
Protectionism is the economic policy of restricting imports from other countries through taxes on imported goods, import quotas, trade barriers, and other government regulations. Most governments still impose some of these protectionist policies to support local employment.
Free Trade Day
Jamestown Day
Jamestown Day is commemorated on May 8. Jamestown was the first permanent English settlement in America. This year marks the 415th anniversary of its founding. Today, it’s composed of two cultural heritage sites. Historic Jamestown is the archeological site on Jamestown Island. Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum that recreates the original James Fort, a Powhatan Native American town. It has replicas of the original settlers’ ships: the “Susan Constant,” “Godspeed,” and “Discovery.” In addition, Indigenous Arts Day is also celebrated that day in Jamestown Settlement. Music, dance, and traditional and contemporary Native American art are shown and are available for purchase.
Iris Day
Iris Day is observed annually on May 8 in Belgium. This holiday, which is unique to the region of Brussels, celebrates the flowering time of the iris flower. May 8 is a symbolic day in the region as it marks the feast day of the region’s patron saint, as well as the victory won by the Allied Powers during World War II. Also, a stylized iris is pictured on the flag of Brussels.