Hundreds of people were streaming into the James Motlatsi stadium in Orkney near Klerksdorp on Thursday to celebrate Workers' Day.

Jubilant workers wearing red T-shirts were singing liberation songs and awaiting an address by African National Congress President Jacob Zuma.

Zuma is expected to address workers about the history and importance of Workers' Day and challenges such as poverty and unemployment.

Congress of SA Trade Unions acting president Sdumo Dlamini and SA Communist Party general secretary Blade Nzimande were also expected to speak to the workers.

The rally is expected to officially begin at 10.30am. - Sapa