May 1st is Labor Day, but it is also the day when we give Lily of the Valley sprigs to our loved ones. But do you know where this tradition came from and how it evolved over time? Do you know when it started? We tell you everything about it.

Lily of the Valley has long been associated with spring, but there are several reasons for this French tradition. One of them has its roots in the Renaissance. While visiting the Drôme region on May 1, 1560, King Charles IX was presented with a bouquet of lily of the valley. Conquered, Charles IX resolved to present the lily of the valley to each lady of the court every spring.

Much later, on May 1, 1895, singer Félix Mayol wore the famous bell-shaped plant in his buttonhole during his first performance on the stage of the Concert Parisien. After his success, he made it his emblem.

Another date and explanation. During the Belle Époque in 1900, the great French couturiers decided to give their little hands and customers the lily of the valley as well. A tradition was born. Christian Dior made it the symbol of his fashion house.

But what’s the connection with Labor Day, which is celebrated on May 1st? The explanation dates back to 1941. Marshal Pétain established “Labor Day and Social Concord Day” that year. At the same time, he decided to replace the red Eglantine, which is associated with the left, with the lily of the valley. May 1st was abolished following the Liberation, but it was reinstated as a paid public holiday in 1948, and the tradition of offering lilies of the valley on this day has persisted ever since.

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !


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