Whenever spring comes it feels like a holiday, for everyone is so happy winter is gone. Spring holiday customs reflect that happiness in singing, dancing, flowers, presents and jokes. Maypoles are decorated with bright ribbons. The sun is warm and birds sing happily. Queens hold court by blossoming cherry and apple trees. Spring festivals are joyous occasions to welcome the awakening of nature.

The Epsteins have traced the beginnings of Groundhog Day, April Fools Day, Audubon Day, May Day and some First Days of Spring. They tell of the traditions of each day and how these customs were developed. Do you know the poem of the Slumbering Groundhog Lodge, how shadflies got their name, who the Bogg is and when Jack-in-the-Green paraded? Why should girls wash their faces in dew? Why should everyone watch his step on a day called Holi?

All these traditions and more are explained in entertaining detail by Sam and Beryl Epstein. The authors have obviously enjoyed their research and now share fun with all.

From the dust jacket