French May Day Foods

I teach a cooking class to children age 9 -13 years old. This semester we learning about other cultures through their celebrations and festivals ... and food. I would like to cover May Day in France, however, I have no clue what the traditional foods are for this day, if any. I have done a little research and will be buying Lily of the Valley plants for all, but the food is still a mystery.

Does anyone have any suggestions for a great menu I can work on with my class?

Thank you,
Lockey

Lockey welcome to the forum It is nice to have you join us.

Except that I know that the French drink milk still warm from the milking (to ensure good luck for the year to come) I have never heard they eat any special food that day

Thank you for the information on the milk. That is very interesting ... and sounds yummy. I am going to bring in some raw milk for them to try ... we'll just warm it up. I have bought each of them a Lily of the Vally plant, as well. I guess I will just go with what I know. We'll have criossants and quiche for breakfast with the warm milk ... although this may put them to sleep!

For the main meal, I will work on an assortment of julienned vegetables tied into bundles with chives (including haricot verte, of course) and French fingerling potatoes roasted with rosemary and olive oil. I still have no clue what to do for the meat portion ... any ideas?

Then we will have a green salad with a vinagrette. I have an assortment of French cheeses for them to try with baguettes which we are making. Then some fresh berries with creme.

Any thoughts on the meat would be appreciated.

Thankyou again,
Lockey

Ah, you don't have to warm up the milk, Lockey. It is just an expression meaning that it is fresh from the cow (like when it comes out it is still warm).

As for the meat I wouldn't worry too much. Meat is no subject at French Day. You can make whatever you like. At least, that is what my French acquaintances are telling me....

Your menu sounds mouth watering Lucky guests

well they could make some quasons. (if thats how you spell them) i am doing french traditional cooking at school and that would be fun.