Traditions of the Day
It is customary to give bouquets of lily-of-the-valley (du muguet) as a gesture of friendship, appreciation, or luck to family and friends. Bouquets are often sold on the street by individuals and labor organizations, tax-free and without needing a license. In more rural areas, some families pick the flowers to give to family and friends. For those who are superstitious, presenting a lily-of-the-valley with 13 bells may bring extra luck!
The day is also one of action and often includes parades or demonstrations to campaign for workers and/or human rights.
History of the Holidays
The French Labor Day was inspired by an 1886 strike in Chicago, where 35,000 workers walked out of their jobs and led a national movement for an eight-hour work day. A few years later, France established their own Labor Day with the same intention. It became a paid holiday (un jour férié) in 1941.
Bonne fête du premier mai à tous !
No matter its origins, May Day is a wonderful way to welcome the spring and appreciate your family, friends, and colleagues. We wish you all a happy (and lucky) day!Jamie Haslett
Former Director of Marketing
Originally from New Jersey, Jamie graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a degree in International Business and a minor in French. She also completed a semester abroad in Marseille, France. Jamie fell in love with the French language as a child when her sister brought home a high school French book, and looks forward to continuing her education at the French Library.
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