Labour day

1st May

By Kemar and JAY

Tradition

• A long-lived pagan custom was to plant an adorned tree on that day to celebrate the return of spring.

For the Catholic Church it is the first day of the month of the Virgin.

Labour Day is a holiday for all workers. It is celebrated in many countries throughout the world including France.

• On May 1st, 1561, French King Charles IX of France received a lily of the valley as a lucky charm. He decided to offer a lily of the valley each year to the ladies of the court.

• At the beginning of the 20th century, it became custom on the 1st of May, to give a sprig of lily of the valley, a symbol of springtime.

• It is also traditional for the lady receiving the spray of lily of valley to give a kiss in return

• The celebration of Labour Day has its origins in the eight hour day movement, which advocated eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest.

JOKES

• Dad: "Most people don't have to work today, because it's Labour Day." Son: "If they're not working, shouldn't it be `No-Labour Day?"

• What do you usually do on Labour Day? As little as possible, just like every day!

• Why did you think someone was about to have a baby? Because you said it was Labour Day!

• Did you hear the one about Labour Day? It works for me!