NATIONAL IRIS DAY; MAY 8

Iris Day is observed annually on May 8 in Belgium. This holiday, which is unique to the region of Brussels, celebrates the flowering time of the iris flower. May 8 is a symbolic day in the region as it marks the feast day of the region’s patron saint, as well as the victory won by the Allied Powers during World War II. Also, a stylized iris is pictured on the flag of Brussels.

HISTORY OF IRIS DAY

Also known as Iris Festival, Iris Day is celebrated in the region of Brussels, the capital of Belgium. Also called the flower of Lys, the iris is the region’s symbol and is pictured on its flag. Iris Day celebrates several important events unique to the region of Brussels: The month of May is the flowering period of the iris. May 8 is the day on which Nazi Germany surrendered in World War II, 1945, and is also the feast day of Saint Michael the Archangel, the patron saint of Brussels — making this day a triple celebration for the people of Brussels. During the Iris Day Festival, exciting activities are held over a few days, such as street festivities, free concerts, and even a food truck festival.

The iris flower is a genus of about 300 species of flowering plants in the Iridaceae family of plants. It has a wide variety of colors and is the birth flower for February. The iris also symbolizes nobility, chivalry, wisdom, faith, and purity. It is recognized in several cultures around the world.

According to Greek mythology, the flower is named after Iris, goddess of the rainbow and messenger of the gods. During the Middle Ages, the fleurs-de-lis, which is a depiction of the iris flower, became a recurring symbol among the nobility. To date, the symbol can still be found on the coat of arms of French cities and royal houses.

5 COLORS OF IRISES AND THEIR MEANINGS

1. White iris The white iris is a symbol of purity, innocence, and divinity.
2. Purple iris The purple iris symbolizes royalty, respect, gratitude, and wisdom.
3. Blue iris The blue iris symbolizes faith, hope, and devotion, most often used in religious contexts.
4. Yellow iris The yellow iris is regarded as a symbol of passion, unlike other flowers of the same color, which often represent friendship.
5. Blue Flag iris This iris color symbolizes faith, courage, and wisdom.