Embracing Spring: The History of May Day and Its Floral Traditions

Most of you know how much I love May Day! It’s one of my favorite holidays and brings me a lot of nostalgia. May Day was something I did with my Mom every year…we still both celebrate it now, just from different sides of the country! As kids, we would make construction paper cones with handles and fill them with fresh flowers (usually lilac from a neighbor’s yard) and homemade oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. We would go around to our neighbors’ houses and hang the baskets on the front door knob. We would then ring the doorbell and run away, trying to get away before being caught!

For those of you who are not too familiar with May Day, here is a quick and brief history:

The origins of May Day flowers can be traced back to ancient times when people honored the gods and goddesses of nature with festivals and offerings. They would wear floral wreaths, decorate their homes with fresh flowers, and enjoy games such as the Maypole dance.

Over the centuries, May Day flowers evolved into a way to show affection and kindness to friends, neighbors, and loved ones. People began making small baskets or cones out of paper or other materials, filling them with flowers, candy, or other treats. On May 1st, they would hang these baskets on the doors of their chosen recipients, ring the bell, and run away. Sometimes, the giver would hope to be caught and kissed by the receiver, a charming custom often practiced by young romantics.

Today, May Day flowers still represent the joy and goodwill of springtime. Some people continue the tradition of creating and giving May baskets to brighten someone's day. Others use flowers to decorate their homes or gardens or to craft unique gifts. In certain communities, May Day is celebrated with maypole dancing or other festivities. No matter how you choose to celebrate May Day, it is a time to appreciate the beauty of nature, share your feelings with others, and welcome the new season with hope.

Flowers have always been an integral part of May Day celebrations, symbolizing the beauty and abundance of spring, as well as the love and gratitude people feel for one another. Since ancient times, flowers have been used to honor the gods and goddesses of nature through floral offerings and wreaths.

We hope this brief history of May Day inspires you to start this tradition and share the joy of flowers with your loved ones. 

Wishing you a blossoming May Day!

Want to create your own? You can order my May Day DIY Kit here and share some joy yourself!