Iris Day 2023: Date, History, Activities, Colours and their Meanings

Iris Day, also known as Iris Festival, is celebrated in the Brussels region, the capital of Belgium. The iris, also known as the flower of Lys, is the region's symbol and is depicted on its emblem. Iris Day commemorates several unique occurrences to the Brussels region:

Iris Day is annually observed on May 8 in Belgium. Unique to the region of Brussels, this holiday commemorates the iris flower’s blooming season. The 8th of May is a significant date in the region because it is both the feast day of the patron saint and the anniversary of the Allied victory in World War II. In addition, a stylized iris is depicted on the Brussels flag.

The Background of Iris Day

Iris Day, also known as Iris Festival, is celebrated in the Brussels region, the capital of Belgium. The iris, also known as the flower of Lys, is the region’s symbol and is depicted on its emblem. Iris Day commemorates several unique occurrences to the Brussels region: Iris flowers bloom throughout the month of May. On May 8, 1945, Nazi Germany surrendered, and it is also the feast day of Saint Michael the Archangel, the patron saint of Brussels, making this a triple commemoration for the citizens of Brussels. During the Iris Day Festival, several days of exciting events are conducted, including street celebrations, free concerts, and even a food truck festival.

Iris is a genus of approximately 300 species of flowering plants in the Iridaceae family. It has a wide range of colours and is the February birth flower. Additionally, the iris represents nobility, chivalry, wisdom, faith, and purity. It is recognised in numerous cultures worldwide.

The flower is named after Iris, deity of the rainbow and messenger of the gods, according to Greek mythology. During the Middle Ages, fleurs-de-lis, a representation of the iris flower, became a recurring symbol among the nobility. The symbol continues to appear on the coats of arms of French cities and royal families.

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IRIS DAY ACTIVITIES

Plant irises

You can celebrate by sowing an iris in your yard or in a flowerpot. This beautiful flower is certain to brighten your residence.

Send flowers

You need not wait until February 14 to shower your loved ones with gifts. Send an iris bouquet to someone you care about.

Publish this article

Share this article with your peers and family to help spread awareness about Iris Day. You could also publish a social media post. Don’t neglect to use the #irisday hashtag.