may day is coming uo very soon- 1st of may to be specise, but what is this festival that  not many seem to know about?

traditionally, celebrations were associated with the fertility of spring and the start of summer. Traditional celebrations of May Day, including feasting, flower crowns, and maypole dancing, are observed in many cultures. interestingly, many different countries  have different traditions. in england, it is celebrated by crowning a May Queen and dancing around a maypole. in finland, it is celebrated with carnival-type celebration in the streets that includes a special type of lemonade made with lemons, brown sugar, and yeast, and in France, it is correct to give people either dogwood or lily of the valley. these different traditions makes may day a very underrated but fun festival.

Whilst this festival isnt as widely known, it symbolises a very important message; one of rebirth, renewal and growth, both of nature and ourselves as a whole, sparking important conversation. A tall wooden pole covered in ribbons, flowers, and other greenery, the maypole is one of the most recognisable images associated with May Day. In many nations, including England, Germany, and Sweden, maypole dancing is a beloved custom. It is a traditional folk dance that is done around a maypole. Dancers create a captivating display of colour and movement as they weave in and out and wrap the ribbons around the pole.

To eat, there are brightly colored radishes, spring peas, asparagus, sweet local strawberries, fresh spring herbs, and alliums that are all plentiful This is the time to inhale, take in all the beauty, and celebrate the bountiful harvest, remembering that many of these spring ingredients appear for only a short precious time.

May Day celebrations revolve around flowers, which stand for the beauty and plenty of springtime. Gathering flowers and green branches to adorn houses and public areas is a custom known as "Maying" in nations such as Scotland and Ireland. Floral crowns, crafted from recently harvested flowers, adorn the heads of women and men alike.