Traditional custom: The wreath of 1st May
The wreath of 1st May is a flower construction that is made for the welcoming of spring. It is a Greek custom but not only Greek, especially the
Mediterranean islands celebrate the coming of spring by making a wreath of flowers (usually wild flowers like daisies and seldom poppies) from
the fields on 1st May. This wreath of flowers is made on 1st May and is hung outside the houses.
Construction
According to the Folklore research the wreath of 1st May is made of a switch from the pliable and tenacious wood of pergola or wire round
which the flowers are reposed.
Tradition and Custom
Customs and actions that accompany the 1st day of May derive from the profundity of human tradition and pass on from generation to
generation. May is the fifth month of the year which – in Greece, Rome and till Byzantine Era- was devoted to the annual celebration of
Demetra, the goddess of fertility and agriculture. Her daughter, Proserpina who comes from Ades, her husband from the underworld, to the
surface of the earth was the reason for the glorius cortege to the Sanctuaries to offer flowers. In people’s minds death and birth good and bad co-
exist. All the houses, apart from those in mourning make a wreath for protection, health, happiness, against negative energy with the proper
combination of flowers. The wreath will remain at the house till the middle of summer. During the celebration of St John of Lockers, they throw
it in the fire. They light fires in the streets and squares and jump over the fire three times, running.
Symbolism
It symbolizes the rebirth of nature with the spring coming an event we want to bring on to our houses.