Spring is quite late in its arrival. It has been relatively cool and overcast here. But in return, I think it is going to be a banner year for the peonies. Let’s celebrate Sunday Smiles May Day.
Sunday Smiles May Day
For centuries in various European festivals, a tall wooden pole decorated with flowers and ribbons took center stage for maypole dances. It was a celebration that spring had arrived. Some towns would attach many different colored ribbons to the Maypole. Numerous single men and women would dance around the Maypole, holding on to ribbons until they became entwined with their new loves!
You can make your own Maypole.
Mini Maypoles
The May Day celebration was also known as Beltane. You can create miniature Maypoles as well.
These ribbon wands are a fun craft for children.
This tutorial combines a mini Maypole with the traditional gift of giving May day flowers.
May Day Baskets
Traditionally the first flowers of spring were left on doors in a small basket.
But you can create fabric pockets.
Use tin cans.
Over the years I have left many May day baskets, cones, and even just simply wrapped up a blooming bush. Really you can leave any happy gift ~ seeds, candy…whatever makes you smile.
May Pole Cakes
These darling cakes are a delicious-looking Maypole recreation.
Free Printable
This post has other lovely ideas and a pretty card to print.
Flower Crowns
You can gather blossoms and greenery from your garden or go faux. Flower crowns can be made many ways.
Table Decor
You can even celebrate simply at home with a small vase of flowers on a pretty table.
But if you want to go all-out try creating a flower chandelier.
There is a special house guest coming to Storybook Cottage on Wednesday and much to prepare. I’ll be back next Sunday with some Mother’s Day ideas sure to make you smile.
I hope you have a wonderful May Day!
Laura
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What a DELIGHTFUL morning of flowers and ribbons and such colors as to charm the heart! I’ve lost track of SO many of the lovely places I’ve enjoyed visiting, and just happened upon yours again after YEARS of wondering—you had commented on a post of mine on Lawn Tea in 2011, and HERE you ARE! What a treat to re-acquaint and enjoy all the BRIGHTS you share. I DO hope you’ll put me on your subscriber list by e-mail. racheld of LAWN TEA blog, though I haven’t posted there in quite some time. So nice to see you again, Laura.
Lovely post! I wish I had thought about May Day baskets before now. Will have to keep it in mind for next year.
Laura-
You are the only person I know that goes all out for May with poles, flowers and baskets. Love the embroidery of the girls dancing around the May pole. Did you make it? Beautiful post. Makes me think of Spring.
Do tell us more about your house guest! Lots of fun May ideas here! Happy month!
Hi Laura,
Thank you for bringing attention to May Day. My children always gave my neighbors and me lovely little flower baskets on May Day. I miss those days. My granddaughter was born on May 1, and I think it is very special.