Europeans know how to celebrate in style! Every country has their own unique way of ringing in May Day. Here are 11 of the most fascinating traditions from around the continent:
1. Spain - The Running of the Bulls
2. Italy - The Festival of Flowers
3. Greece - Flora's Dance
4. Norway - Children's Day
5. Poland - Czarny Protest
6. Romania - Painted Eggs
7. Sweden - Walpurgis Night
8. United Kingdom - Morris Dancing
9. Ukraine - International Workers' Day
10. France - La Fete du Travailleur et de la Travailleuse
11. Germany - Maibaumaufstellen
Spain - The Running of the Bulls
The Running of the Bulls is a popular event that takes place in Pamplona, Spain during the San Fermin festival. Participants run through the streets as bulls chase them. The event is considered dangerous, and several people have been injured or killed over the years.
Italy - The Festival of Flowers
The Festival of Flowers is a popular event in Italy that celebrates springtime. Participants walk through the streets wearing floral headdresses and carrying baskets of flowers. The festival takes place in Genoa, Italy each year.
Greece - Flora's Dance
Flora's Dance is a traditional dance that takes place in Greece to celebrate May Day. The dance is performed by women wearing colorful skirts and headdresses. The dance is said to bring good luck and fertility to the participants.
Norway - Children's Day
Children's Day is a national holiday in Norway that celebrates the children of the country. The day is filled with family-friendly activities, and children often receive special presents from their parents.
Poland - Czarny Protest
Czarny Protest is a movement in Poland that protests against discrimination and violence against women. The name of the movement means "black protest" in Polish. The movement began in 2016 and has gained a large following in Poland.
Romania - Painted Eggs
Painted eggs are a popular tradition in Romania during the month of May. Families gather together to paint eggs in bright colors and patterns. The eggs are then displayed as decorations or given as gifts.
Sweden - Walpurgis Night
Walpurgis Night is a popular celebration in Sweden that takes place on the night of April 30th. The night is named after Saint Walpurga, and is celebrated with bonfires, fireworks, and costumes.
United Kingdom - Morris Dancing
Morris dancing is a traditional dance that is popular in the United Kingdom. The dance is performed by men and women wearing colorful costumes and masks. Morris dancing is often done to traditional folk music.
Ukraine - International Workers' Day
International Workers' Day is a national holiday in Ukraine that celebrates the workers of the country. The day is filled with parades, speeches, and demonstrations.
France - La Fete du Travailleur et de la Travailleuse
La Fete du Travailleur et de la Travailleuse is a national holiday in France that celebrates the workers of the country. The day is filled with parades, speeches, and demonstrations.
Germany - Maibaumaufstellen
Maibaumaufstellen is a traditional event in Germany that celebrates the arrival of spring. A tree is erected in the town square, and participants gather to celebrate with music and dancing. The event often concludes with a fireworks display.
Which tradition is your favorite?
Do you have a favorite European tradition that we didn't mention? Let us know! We would love to hear from you.
Happy May Day!