May Day Mayhem

May is here and we all need some cheer. And with everything that’s going on in the world right now, there’s no better way to kick off the last month of spring than with my favorite May Day tradition—leaving flowers at people’s front door. It’s the perfect social distancing surprise!

That’s right, in addition to Maypole dances, bell ringing and May Queens, another fun May Day tradition is leaving a basket of flowers at your neighbors’ doors. The tradition started in Europe, but no one’s exactly sure where or why.

Before the tradition evolved into what it is today, people would fill their baskets with a variety of treats like fruit, nuts, small trinkets for children and of course flowers. But as time moved on, people started leaving just small baskets with flowers.

Now, I love this tradition for a couple reasons. First of all, I just think it’s fun to spread a little cheer to my friends and neighbors. Second, leaving the basket, ringing the doorbell and running away all without getting caught is great exercise. And yes, you’re supposed to leave the basket anonymously. Tradition says if you get caught by the recipient, they get to kiss you. But in light of current events, lets skip that part of the tradition.

Sounds awesome, doesn’t it? Well, if you wanna go on a May Day spree of your own, here’s what you need: old newspaper, ribbon and flowers. Use the newspaper to form a cone basket and tie the ribbon to make a handle. Then just add the flowers and BOOM, a fun way to spend your May Day!