Irises are a flowering plant genus that includes over 310 different accepted flower species. There are bearded irises, yellow irises, and Northern blue flag irises. There are also Siberian irises, netted irises, and about 305 other different incarnations of this flower.

Throughout history, their aromatic rhizomes have been used to make fragrances, and the purplish juice squeezed from their flowers has been used to make pigments for manuscript illumination and for other purposes.

They have also been used as symbols over the years. They’ve been a symbol of wisdom, faith, hope, and positive change. It’s no wonder these flowers have earned their own day—a holiday known as Iris Day, celebrated every May 8th.

The History Of Iris Day

Iris Day is a holiday that has been observed since the Middle Ages in one form or another in some countries. In Brussels, Belgium, the iris is especially important as it’s a significant symbol of the region and even appears on the Flag of the Brussels-Capital Region.

Every year, there is an Iris Festival in Brussels observed on the 8th of May. That’s why Iris Day is celebrated on this day. Of course, this holiday has long since crossed Belgium’s borders and is now observed in cities and villages all around the world.

Some Quick Facts About The Iris

You didn’t think we’d end a holiday called Iris Day without taking a few moments to actually list some facts about irises, did you? Of course, we wouldn’t. That’s why we’ve researched, collated, and listed the following factoids for all of our readers’ enjoyment.

• Irises are native to Asia, Europe, and North America.
• Purple is the most common iris color, but they also come in other colors, including pink, blue, yellow, and white.
• The iris is a symbol of power, wisdom, and sometimes even royalty.
• People have been cultivating irises for over 4,000 years.
• Iris cultivation dates back to ancient Egypt.
• Irises are perennial plants and grow from creeping rhizomes.

Observing Iris Day

The Iris Festival in Brussels is a must-see event for anyone who wants to celebrate this holiday. There’s an Iris Food corner that features more than three dozen food trucks serving cuisines from around the world, street theater, acrobatics, dancers, and other creative performances as well.

Similar celebrations occur in cities around the world. People can also spread the word about this holiday using the hashtag #IrisDay on social media.