Tag: French traditions

Similarly to our post earlier this year about the tradition of buying Mimosas, on May 1st you will see most people buying a small bouquet of Lily-of-the-Valley in France. May 1st marks “La Fête du Muguet” (muguet = lily-of-the-valley) or “Le Premier Mai”. May 1st also marks a French national holiday, the “Fête du Travail”.

It’s a popular custom in France to offer Muguets to their loved ones as a symbol of luck and happiness. On May 1st you can find the little flowers sold everywhere. In stores, by street vendors and florists, you’ll easily be able to purchase them. The flowers are usually decorated with a small red, white, and blue ribbon, like those of the French flag. People also buy these bouquets to celebrate International Workers’ Day, which is a public holiday in France.

The tradition of buying Muguets on May 1st  has its roots in the Renaissance era and has evolved over time. The origin can be traced back to the 16th century, to an event involving King Charles IX of France. The story goes that on May 1st 1561, Charles received a sprig of lily-of-the-valley as a lucky charm or a token of good fortune. He was so delighted by the gesture that he decided to adopt it as a symbol of luck and prosperity. He also gifted it to many ladies thereafter on May 1st, thus the tradition was born.

It’s worth noting that while the tradition of buying lily-of-the-valley on May 1st is primarily associated with France, it is also observed in some other countries, such as Belgium and parts of Switzerland. 

You may have noticed many people carrying bright yellow flowers recently. These flowers are called Golden Wattle or Mimosa in French. They are a popular purchase this time of year!

The tradition of buying mimosa flowers in February is a cultural phenomenon during the winter season. Only from January to March, Mimosa is one of the few flowers that bloom during the winter months. Beautiful and fragrant, its bright yellow color is seen as a symbol of the sun and the warmth it brings. This is why it has become associated with the end of winter and the coming of spring.

---

The tradition of buying mimosa flowers can be traced back to the early 20th century, when a group of florists in the city of Nice decided to promote the flower as a symbol of the city and the region. They organized an annual parade, known as the “Battle of Flowers,” where flower-covered floats were paraded through the city’s streets. Mimosa was one of the most popular flowers used in the parade, and its popularity soon spread throughout France.

So when you see the bright yellow bouquets of mimosas know it’s a common sight to see. The flowers are often given as gifts, and they are used to decorate homes and businesses. You can purchase them at any florist, but supermarkets tend to stock them, too.  Rejoice, as when you can see Mimosas in bloom it’s a sure sign that warmer days are just around the corner!