May Day, celebrated on May 1, dates back to ancient times but is still celebrated across many cultures.
It was originally an acknowledgment of the halfway point between the spring equinox and summer solstice, according to The Farmer’s Almanac. Festivals were held featuring songs, dances, and bonfires. People also decorated doors with yellow May Flowers.
Some of these traditions carried over from England, where the holiday has a long history. In England, children danced around a maypole with colorful ribbons and flowers were a huge part of the celebrations. People gathered wildflowers and created hair garlands and floral hoops before crowning a May king and queen.
Originally, the ancient Celts used a living tree from the woods as a maypole, praying for their crops’ fertility, according to The Farmer’s Almanac.
All villages in the Middle Ages had maypoles and would compete to see who had the tallest or best maypole.
Why is it not as popular in America?
May Day was considered promiscuous by the Puritans in New England and was considered pagan, so they forbade people to celebrate it.
In the 19th century, however, colleges started celebrating May Day with a maypole dance and festivals. Interest again declined and now the Maypole dance is mostly done by children as a fun spring activity.
How flowers play a role in May Day
As noted, flowers are used frequently in May Day celebrations. One tradition, which is still honored by some today, is the making and gifting of a May Basket.
The tradition has changed some, with most people using it as a reason to give someone flowers, but initially, it was a gift and a game. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, In the 19th and 20th centuries children or those who were “courting” someone would drop the basket at the recipient’s door, knock and yell “May basket!” and run away.
The recipient would then chase the gifter and if caught they were owed a kiss.
Traditionally, the “baskets” were cones made t of paper and filled with wildflowers. Some people now give actual baskets with flowers, seeds, baked cookies, and other small presents to celebrate the holiday.
May Day is a time to embrace spring and all the beauty that comes with it, including flowers. Whether you choose to give a May Basket or to simply add more color, flowers, and spring elements into your day we hope you take the time to enjoy the freshness of this time of year.