The first day of May used to be celebrated by hanging a basket filled with flowers, goodies, or sweets on your neighbors’ doors. It served as an opportunity to connect with your people in a unique, meaningful, and celebratory way. Welcome, spring!
At Greetabl, we believe this tradition deserves a comeback. But first, let’s answer everyone’s burning question…
What is May Day?
Across various cultures, May Day is a celebration of the return of spring. The tradition was one of the four ancient Celtic cross-quarter days, celebrated by dancing, singing, and hosting special bonfires. House doors and animals would be decorated with yellow May flowers and ribbons to pay tribute to the beauty and youthfulness of the season.
May Day was also a tradition in the Middle Ages, where maypole contests took place between villages. The winning village, naturally, had the tallest maypole.
In the 19th century, May Day took on a new meaning in the United States. It became known as International Workers’ Day for labor rights to advocate for an eight hour work day.
Today, both Europeans and Americans celebrate with maypole dancing, making flower baskets, and flower crowns. In Hawaii, May Day is known as “Lei Day”. On the islands, May Day is a celebration of the aloha spirit.
What Does May Day Mean Today?
There’s a great opportunity to reclaim the festive nature of May Day. Especially with vaccinations rolling out and the hope of normalcy soon, the vibrancy of the first day of May comes out all the more. Remember all the people you reconnected with during the pandemic? Celebrate with them (and don’t forget about them once life opens up!).
Here are a few ways to celebrate May Day with your people:
Write Hand-Written Notes
There’s a lot of power in a handwritten-note. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. A quick note to express gratitude for what your friend or neighbor has done in the past, paired with excitement for the future, will go a long way. Leave on your neighbor’s porch or mail to your long-distance BFF.
Send May Day Gifts
Lean into the traditions of May Day with a spring-themed gift basket. Include anything sunshine-y, floral, and fresh with ideas like the below:
Bouquet of Flowers Gummies
There’s nothing better than an edible bouquet. Not to mention, they’re pollen-free!
Happy Garden Vibes Print
Because sunshine and flowers are always a good choice!
Handmade Flower Candle
A sweet combination of rose water, bright citrus, and spicy vanilla.
Watermelon Print
Looks good enough to eat! A sweet and colorful pick for any fun-loving friend or family member.
Vaccinated Looks Good on You Print
Celebrate the hope of going to live events, concerts, and seeing one another IRL again soon.
Blooms or Bust Print
This cheerful and pretty print is bound to deliver a smile.
Magnolia Bouquet Candle
Gift a floral bouquet with a scent made to last
XOXO Chocolate Hearts
Show your people you love them better than a John Mayer lyric.
Cup of Sunshine Tea
Nothing brightens up a day like a Cup of Sunshine delivered directly to your door. Perfect for cheering up and celebrations, this tea makes a perfect gift.
Hello Sunshine Key Tag
Nothing brightens up a day like a Cup of Sunshine delivered directly to your door. Perfect for cheering up and celebrations, this tea makes a perfect gift.
Bake Goodies
Deliver freshly baked cookies to your neighbors with a “Happy May Day!” note.
Complete a Random Act of Service
Help pick your neighbor’s weeds. Drop off fresh fruits and vegetables from your neighborhood farmers market. Wash their car. Take their dog for a walk. Plant fresh flowers in their beds or garden.
Make Flower Crowns
A literal interpretation of the holiday… make flower crowns together!
Take a Walk Together
Enjoy the fresh air (weather dependent!) and take a long walk with a friend or neighbor.
Have a Picnic
Host an outdoor picnic with your closest people.
Play Yard Games
Hopscotch. Jump rope. Cornhole. Croquet. Four square. Horseshoe. Slip-n-slide… to name a few.