May 1st in France is a very special day known as “Fête du Travail” or International Workers’ Day. It’s a public holiday where people celebrate workers’ rights and the coming of spring.
Many people take the day off work to join parades and demonstrations for labour rights.
It’s also a time when people give each other sprigs of lily of the valley or “muguet” as a symbol of good luck and happiness.
Stores and businesses are usually closed, so streets are filled with families and friends enjoying the day together.