🌸 Ding Dong… It’s May Day!

A Sweet Tradition with Deep Roots

If you’ve ever opened your front door on May 1st to find a small basket of flowers or candy sitting on your porch… you’ve experienced one of the sweetest traditions around—May Day.

But where did this “ring the doorbell and run” tradition actually come from? Let’s take a quick trip back in time.

The Origins of May Day

May Day dates all the way back to ancient Europe, where people celebrated the arrival of spring after long, cold winters. One of the most well-known traditions came from maypole dancing, where communities would gather, dance around a tall pole decorated with ribbons, and celebrate new life, growth, and warmer days ahead.

Even earlier than that, festivals like the Roman celebration of Floralia honored Flora, the goddess of flowers. These celebrations were full of blooming flowers, bright colors, and joyful gatherings—sound familiar?

How It Came to America

As European traditions made their way to the United States, May Day evolved into something a little more personal and playful.

By the late 1800s and early 1900s, Americans began celebrating by creating small baskets filled with flowers, treats, or handwritten notes. These baskets would be secretly delivered to neighbors, friends, or even crushes (yes… this was an early form of flirting 👀).

The goal? Drop it off, ring the doorbell, and run before you get caught.

🌷 Why Small Towns Still Love It

While May Day celebrations have faded in bigger cities, they’re still alive and well in small towns—especially across the Midwest.

Why? Because it’s simple, thoughtful, and rooted in community.

It’s not about big events or expensive gifts. It’s about:

• Brightening someone’s day

• Celebrating the arrival of spring

• Keeping traditions alive across generations

  
  

A Little Bit of Magic in Colby

Here in Colby, May Day feels right at home.

It’s kids laughing as they sprint away from a front porch…Neighbors smiling at an unexpected surprise…And a reminder that sometimes the smallest gestures mean the most.

So this May 1st, consider joining in on the fun: Make a basket. Drop it off. Ring the bell. Run.

We promise… it never gets old.