National Lilly Day

A stunning bouquet of lilies, set against a picturesque garden backdrop. The flowers radiate beauty and elegance, showcasing the wonder of National Lilly Day.. — National lilly day illustration

Welcome to National Lilly Day, where we celebrate the beauty and elegance of these lovely flowers. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but in this case, we're going to give you a thousand words explaining why you should be in awe of lilys. So grab your gardening gloves and get ready to dive into the wonderful world of lilies!

When is Lilly Day?

It's national lilly day on the 21st June.

The History of National Lilly Day

While there isn't an official documented origin of National Lilly Day, the influence of these enchanting flowers can be traced back centuries. Lilies have been revered in different cultures throughout history, symbolizing purity, rebirth, and even divinity.

From ancient Egypt to medieval Europe, lilies played a vital role in myths, legends, and religious ceremonies. They were often associated with beauty, elegance, and spiritual significance. It wasn't until modern times that lilies received their very own national day of celebration.

How to Celebrate

Celebrating National Lilly Day is easy and enjoyable. Here are a few ideas to make the most of this floral holiday:

Visit a Botanical Garden: Take a leisurely stroll through a nearby botanical garden and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of various lily species. You'll be mesmerized by their vibrant colors and delicate petals.
Create Lily-Themed Crafts: Let your creativity bloom and make some lily-inspired crafts. Whether it's painting watercolor lilies, arranging dried lily petals into a collage, or even making DIY floral wreaths, the possibilities are endless.
Send Lily Bouquets: Brighten someone's day by surprising them with a gorgeous bouquet of lilies. It's a thoughtful and heartfelt gesture that will bring a smile to their face.

Did You Know?

Did you know that lilies have different symbolic meanings depending on their color? White lilies represent purity and innocence, while orange lilies symbolize passion and confidence. Yellow lilies are often associated with gratitude and joy, while pink lilies convey love and admiration. So, next time you're sending lilies to someone, choose the color that best conveys your message!

History behind the term 'Lilly'

1676

The First Mention

The term 'lilly' was first mentioned in botanical texts in the year 1676. It refers to a type of flowering plant belonging to the genus Lilium. The name 'lilly' is derived from the Latin word 'lilium,' which means 'lily.' These plants are known for their beautiful, fragrant flowers and have been cultivated for decorative purposes for centuries.

14th century

Medieval Roots

In the 14th century, the term 'lilly' originally referred to the flower known as the lily. This beautiful perennial plant with large, showy flowers has long been admired for its elegance and purity. It became a symbol of virtue, beauty, and innocence in medieval art and literature.

1300

The Ancient Roots

The term 'lilly' traces its origins back to the 14th century. Derived from the Middle English word 'lilie' and Old English word 'lilie', it stems from the Latin word 'lilium'. In ancient times, the lily flower held great significance in various cultures, symbolizing purity, beauty, and fertility. The Egyptians associated it with rebirth and the Greeks linked it to Greek goddesses Hera and Artemis.

1400

Religious Symbolism

Throughout the 15th century, the term 'lilly' became intricately tied to Christian symbolism. During this period, the lily became closely associated with the Virgin Mary, representing her purity and role in the conception of Jesus. As a result, the term 'lilly' started being used to refer to the Madonna Lily (Lilium candidum) specifically.

1849

Symbolism in Art

During the 19th century, 'lilly' gained significant symbolism in art and literature. It became associated with purity, innocence, and beauty. Artists often depicted lilies in their paintings to convey these qualities. The famous painting 'Lilies' by Claude Monet, created in 1849, showcased the delicate beauty of these flowers and further popularized their significance.

17th century

Heraldic Usage

In the 17th century, the term 'lilly' gained another meaning when it became associated with heraldry. The fleur-de-lis (French for 'flower of the lily') became a popular symbol in heraldry, representing the French monarchy. It featured three stylized lilies joined together, symbolizing faith, wisdom, and chivalry. The fleur-de-lis later spread to various European countries and became widely recognized as a symbol of nobility and prestige.

1600

Medicinal and Culinary Usage

By the 17th century, the term 'lilly' had expanded its meaning and began to encompass not only the Madonna Lily but also various other species of the Lilium genus. During this time, the medicinal properties of lilies gained attention. The bulbs were utilized in herbal remedies for ailments such as fevers and skin conditions. Additionally, lily petals were incorporated into culinary creations, lending their delicate flavor to dishes.

1867

Lilly as a Name

In the late 19th century, the name 'Lilly' gained popularity as a given name for girls. It was chosen for its association with the elegant and graceful attributes of the flower. The name experienced a surge in popularity during this time and has remained a popular choice ever since.

19th century

Metaphorical Connotations

During the 19th century, the term 'lilly' started to acquire metaphorical connotations. It began to be used to describe someone who displayed the qualities associated with the lily flower and the fleur-de-lis: purity, grace, beauty, and elegance. This metaphorical usage of 'lilly' further embraced the notion of someone who was morally upright and virtuous.

1902

Lilly Pulitzer

In 1902, Lilly Pulitzer, an American socialite, and fashion designer, was born. She gained fame for her colorful and vibrant clothing designs. Lilly Pulitzer's designs often featured floral patterns, prominently including lilies. Her impact on the fashion industry further cemented the cultural significance of the term 'lilly,' making it synonymous with style and fashion.

20th century

Lilly as a Personal Name

In the 20th century, 'lilly' gained popularity as a given name, particularly for girls. The name evoked the same positive qualities as the lily flower and the fleur-de-lis. It became associated with femininity, gracefulness, and charm. Today, 'Lilly' remains a beloved and cherished name that continues to resonate with its historical symbolism and cultural significance.

1800

Ornamental Gardening

Moving into the 19th century, lilies gained substantial popularity as ornamental plants. Various hybridization efforts took place, resulting in the introduction of numerous new lily cultivars. The term 'lilly' continued to represent these ornamental lilies, enchanting gardeners and enthusiasts with their stunning colors, fragrance, and elegant appearance.

1900

Lilly Pulitzer and Fashion

In the 20th century, the term 'lilly' took on an additional meaning related to fashion. Lilly Pulitzer, an American fashion designer, introduced vibrant, tropical-inspired clothing in the 1960s. Her brand became synonymous with colorful prints and patterns, earning her the nickname 'The Queen of Prep.' Today, the term 'lilly' can refer to the iconic Lilly Pulitzer style, embodying a sense of fun, leisure, and timeless fashion.

1973

Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act

In 1973, the term 'lilly' gained political significance with the introduction of the 'Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act.' The act aimed to address pay discrimination based on gender. Its namesake, Lilly Ledbetter, was an American activist who fought against wage disparities. The act's name served as a symbol of advocating for equal pay and promoting gender equality in the workplace.