A Day for Flowers, A Day for Workers

Un jour pour les fleurs, un jour pour les travailleurs

I’ve always adored lily of the valley. It’s delicate, fragrant, and easily one of my top three favorite flowers. So when I started seeing bouquets of it pop up around Paris this week, I was immediately drawn in.

I knew that May 1st was Labor Day here in France, and I’d heard there was a connection between the holiday and these tiny, bell-shaped blossoms. But truthfully, I didn’t know the full story. A little curiosity—and a little Googling—led me down a charming path of history and tradition.

As it turns out, offering a small bouquet of muguet on May 1st is a longstanding French custom. It’s a simple gesture meant to bring good luck and happiness to those you love. I just love that. A flower as a wish for joy? More of that, please.

But there’s also a deeper layer. In the late 19th century, muguet became a quiet symbol of solidarity among workers during the labor movement in France. Over time, it became woven into the fabric of Labor Day here. So today, it carries both meanings—a sweet token of affection and a respectful nod to the power of standing together.

For those of you in the States, you’ll mark Labor Day in September. But don’t be surprised if you see people gathering on May 1st too. In cities around the world, this date has become a day of peaceful protest and worker advocacy. It’s a reminder that progress often comes from unity—and that even the smallest things, like flowers, can carry a big message.

So here I am, still settling into life in Paris, holding a little pot of muguet on my windowsill and letting it remind me of everything that blooms in spring—hope, joy, and the strength that comes from community.

With love from Paris

🤍, Lois