The Crowning
Every summer, in rural areas and small villages around Nairiume, people spend summer days making crowns out of flowers, grasses, vines, and leaves. It has carried over into some cities and larger towns, with some families keeping small gardens for the purpose of making the traditional crowns to gift to their friends and family members. The tradition is known as The Crowning.
History
It is not exactly known when or how the Crowning tradition began, but some believe it may date back to the coronation of an early Queen of Nairiume. The only thing known is that people in Nairiume have been following the tradition for hundreds of years, and that most people in rural areas spend entire summers wearing their crowns. Sometimes, these are woven into the traditional braids worn by Nair people.
Execution
Once flowers - usually wildflowers - are in bloom and the grasses are tall enough, people begin to create flower crowns to give as gifts. Once the first crown is seen by others in the area, everyone else begins to make them and give them out.
Components and tools
Some add ribbons or charms to their crowns, which are then usually worn by the receiver in their hair after the crown itself is no longer wearable. For some, this is a common way to gift hair decorations that are traditionally worn in Nair braids.
Participants
Everyone in the area participates in the Crowning tradition, from young children to elders. Those who are unable to pick the items used in the crowns usually have others gather the materials for them.
Observance
The Crowing is carried on all summer, and sometimes into the autumn. Those who observe through autumn use the dried plants in the area to make their crowns. Once there are no more materials to make them with, the Crowning is over. Most crowns are dried and kept as wall decorations if they have not fallen to pieces. Those that have come apart are usually burned.
