Explore Greece on May Day

Visit Greece on May Day and take a journey into the country’s rich culture and tradition

1st of May or May Day is a big holiday in Greece. It goes back to ancient times before the Labor Day holiday was introduced. Back then, it was mainly about celebrating the beginning of spring. This month was dedicated to the goddess of agriculture Demeter and her daughter Persephone who reunited with her mother in this month after spending winter in the underworld.

One of the oldest celebrations of May Day was the Anthesteria which was the very first flower festival. The flower festival started in Athens with processions carrying flowers to temples and sanctuaries.

One thing that has changed is the meaning of May Day. Today, the day is one of the few holidays in Greece that does not have religious meaning. However, it has remained an important tradition and flowers are a big part of it.

People pick flowers and make a wreath which they hang on the door until it dries. The process of making wreaths is meant to bring people closer to nature. Also, the belief that flowers represent the beauty of the gods and that they bring people health and happiness still holds.

You can celebrate with a family picnic in one of the lush parks in keeping with the theme of the day of celebrating the beginning of spring and getting close to nature. Greece is a beautiful place to visit with so much to see and do. Choose to travel during May Day and you will enjoy an interesting journey into the rich culture and traditions of Greek traditions and culture.