May 8

Iris Day

Get ready to bloom on Iris Day! Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful flowers and their vibrant colors – it's time to stop and smell the irises.

Yearly Date

May 8

Observed in

Belgium

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate the beautiful and vibrant Iris flower on May 8 for National Iris Day! This day is dedicated to honoring one of the most beloved flowers in the world, known for its striking colors and delicate petals. The name "Iris" comes from the Greek word meaning "rainbow", which perfectly describes the variety of hues this flower can come in. It has been a symbol of love, hope, and faith throughout history, making it even more special to celebrate. So let's take a moment to appreciate the stunning Iris and all its meanings on this special day!

Iris Day Timeline

1400s

Iris in Art

The Iris flower began appearing in European artwork, illustrating its popularity during the Renaissance period.

1500s

Royal Symbolism

The Iris, or Fleur-de-lis, was adopted as a symbol in France during the reign of King Louis VII, representing purity and light.

1800s

Botanical Studies

European botanists expanded their studies on various Iris species, leading to numerous scientific texts and publications on the flower.

1927

American Iris Society

The American Iris Society was established to promote the appreciation and protection of Irises.

1987

Tennessee State Flower

The Iris was chosen as the state flower of Tennessee, USA.

2018

First National Iris Day

The celebration of National Iris Day was officially documented to honor these beautiful, vibrant flowers.

How to Celebrate Iris Day

1 Plant an iris garden

Celebrate Iris Day by planting a beautiful iris garden in your yard! Not only will you have a stunning display of flowers, but you'll also be honoring the official flower of this special day.

2 Create iris-themed crafts

Get crafty and make some iris-themed decorations or gifts! You could paint iris flowers on canvas, create paper iris bouquets, or even make a homemade iris-scented candle.

3 Have an iris-inspired picnic

Pack a basket full of delicious snacks and head to a park or garden with some friends or family. Enjoy your picnic surrounded by beautiful iris flowers and celebrate the beauty of nature on Iris Day.

4 Attend an iris festival

Do some research and see if there are any local iris festivals happening on Iris Day. It's a great opportunity to learn more about these gorgeous flowers and maybe even purchase some to add to your own garden.

5 Send iris-themed cards or gifts

Spread the love and joy of Iris Day by sending out cards or small gifts with iris designs or scents. It's a thoughtful way to celebrate this special day with loved ones near and far.

Why We Love Iris Day

Iris is a beautiful flower

The iris flower comes in a variety of colors and always makes for a stunning addition to any garden. It's no wonder it's associated with royalty and nobility - these flowers are truly regal and magnificent!

Iris has a rich history and symbolism

In Greek mythology, the goddess Iris was known as the personification of the rainbow - symbolizing beauty, hope and communication. The iris flower itself also carries various symbolic meanings across different cultures, such as eloquence, faith, and wisdom.

Iris inspires creativity

With its intricate petals and bold colors, it's no surprise that many artists have found inspiration in the iris flower. Whether it's through painting, photography or even fashion design, the iris can spark creativity in anyone who lays their eyes on it!