tradition of the ancient Roman and Druid holiday of May Day has endured for centuries. It
has been a celebration of spring turning into the pleasures of summer. Traditionally, a
"Maypole" was the focus of the festivals. Even today the Maypole is used in the
replications of old-time festivals. The Maypole is a tall pole in which ribbons are woven
around by groups of dancers to make unique designs and patterns.
Gathering flowers and branches became a
tradition and "bringing in the May" became a popular activity on May 1. The
giving of baskets became part of the festivities later in the evolution of May Day. Today
baskets are often made by little children, filled with candy or flowers and then placed
on people's doorsteps or tied to the door handle, as they ring the doorbell and dash away
before they are caught. You can participate in this activity yourself by making a special
May Day basket or using any small basket to fill with flowers to give to a friend.
Fill a small basket with freshly
gathered Spring blossoms. Tuck a small vase or something that will hold water into the
bottom of the basket and fill the basket with a selection of flowers. Tie a bow or ribbon
streamers onto the handle and fasten it to the door handle of a friend.