How To Celebrate May Day

May Day has a special significance in several cultures. Especially in Europe, the traditions followed are reminiscent of fertility festivals of the ancient Germanic and Roman civilizations. Non-European cultures may have customs that are similar. Here are some ideas for your next May Day celebration.

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STEPS

1) - Erect a maypole or "May tree".

Erect a maypole or "May tree". This is usually either a young tree or a very high pole with a wreath of greens hung from the top, encircling it. Typically, long pieces of colored ribbon are attached to the top. A group of people will each grasp a piece of ribbon and dance in a circle around it, interweaving the ribbons to form a pattern around the pole. In the case of a May tree, the branches are decorated with colored ribbon

2) - Make a bonfire.

Make a bonfire. In the Germanic cultures, bonfires were made and herds of cattle driven between them to rid them from evil spirits and protect them from harm. Fires are still burned on May eve, the night between April 30 and May 1, today.

3) - "Dance into the May".

In Germany, for example, it is common to hold a dance on the night of April 30 that lasts past midnight. This is known as "Tanz in den Mai".

5) - Attempt divination.

May eve is said to be a time when the spirit world and the physical world are close together. Folk divination methods can be done for fun in the evening, for example peeling an apple with a knife, so that the peel stays in one piece. Then cut the apple in half and eat half of it with your back to a mirror. Throw the other half over your left shoulder and quickly turn to face the mirror. It is said to then reveal your future partners face looking over your shoulder. Alternatively, you can go out at dusk and gather 9 flowers (each a different type). Tie them up with a string and place them under your pillow. It is believed to reveal your future mate in your dreams.

6) - Make a wreath of daisies.

Wearing the wreath on your head past midnight on May eve can attract good luck and keep away mischievous fairies.

Tips

Of course, none of these actions are truly necessary to celebrate "correctly". If you prefer to just be outdoors and have a picnic with seasonal foods, that is just as appropriate and enjoyable. Just do what feels special to you.

Warnings

Obviously, punch including alcohol may not be consumed by minors.

See May Day for more information about this holiday.

You May Also Be Interested In:

• Party Planning ideas

• How to seat dinner guests

Sources & Citations