Lily of the Valley. (Courtesy photo)

May 1: Labor Day and Lily of the Valley explained

CHIÈVRES, Belgium -- In Belgium, Labor Day, sometimes referred to as International Workers’ Day, is observed on May 1. Although some people see Labor Day as a time for rest, this day is dedicated to paying tribute to workers and acknowledging their contributions to the Belgian economy.

The tradition of Labor Day goes back to May 1, 1886, when the first eight-hour workday went into effect by the Federation of Organized Trades and Labor Unions of Canada and U.S. The FOTLU made the decision to establish eight-hour workdays after massive strikes occurred in the U.S. as workers protested working long days in inhuman conditions.

From the beginning of the 20th century, Belgians observed Labor Day, known as “Fête du Travail” in French-speaking communities, on May 1. The day is a federal holiday in most European countries. Some countries, however, such as The Netherlands and Denmark, do not observe the holiday. Other countries in Asia, Africa and South America also observe Labor Day on May 1.

In the U.S., people celebrate Labor Day on the first Monday of September instead of May 1 to honor the American labor movement and the contributions that workers have made for the country.

LILY OF THE VALLEY

May 1 is also a day for another tradition in Belgium. On Wednesday, many people will give a few springs of lily of the valley to their loved ones as a way to wish them happiness throughout the year.

Lily of the valley is a flower that grows in temperate zones in the northern hemisphere from April to June.

The lily of the valley’s tradition dates back to the Renaissance period. The King of France, Charles IX, visited his country’s Drome region with his mother and received springs of the lily as a lucky charm. He appreciated the smell so much that, one year later, he decided to give the ladies of the Court springs of lily as a lucky charm too.

The flower can be found almost everywhere around May 1 such as flower shops, road stands, gas stations and supermarkets or even sometimes in your own backyard.

Story by Christophe Morel, USAG Benelux Public Affairs