What Is May Day?

If you haven't heard of it before, May Day is celebrated on the first day of May (which—surprise—is why it's called May Day). There isn't a specific origin of the holiday, but rather several centuries-old springtime celebrations that have been condensed into one holiday over the years. The first of these celebrations dates back to about 500 B.C. and comes from the ancient Roman celebration of Floralia, a festival that celebrated Flora, the goddess of flowers and fertility. Floralia was celebrated between late April and early May, and typically lasted a whole week. It was a celebration of springtime and new life.

You may also have heard of Maypoles (they're more common in Europe than in the U.S.) which is another centuries-old tradition that influenced the modern-day May Day. In medieval times, villagers would place bright, colorful streamers and ribbons on a tall pole; young girls would each grab the end of a streamer and do a dance around holding them.

When the pilgrims came to America, they traded the Maypole tradition for more simple baskets of flowers and treats, which is a tradition that's still frequently used today. Over time, all of these spring celebrations and customs have morphed into what we now recognize as May Day.

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