The History of May Day

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The tradition of "May Day" has its roots in medieval Europe. Originally a day set aside for the observance of agricultural rituals by the Greeks and Romans, has today become a day to share a kindness with your neighbors.

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These kindnesses are varied in nature: May pole dancing, picking and giving of flowers, welcoming Spring, or playing "ding-dong-ditch" and leaving a homemade basket filled with treats on a door handle.

One of the many superstitions related to May Day was that if a person would wash their face with the dew of the morning that their skin would always be beautiful. It would be worth a try!

In the 20th century, the May Day celebrations dwindled due to the day being associated with the international recognition of workers and the labour movement in Europe and the Haymarket Riot in Chicago in 1886.

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Today, there are people who still celebrate Spring by the giving of flowers or hand made baskets hung on neighbors' doors. The Amana Colonies in Iowa celebrate Maifest, a German holiday similar to Oktoberfest. They proudly wear native costumes, dance the May Pole, and a lot of beer and food are consumed that weekend.

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So, if you want to get in on the festivities, make your own May Day traditions. This would be a good year to begin by leaving a surprise on your neighbor's door.