Carp flags have been swimming up flag poles for a couple of weeks.  What do they mean and where do they come from?

In Japan, Tangu No Sekku, is a national holiday celebrating the nature of children while promoting their health and happiness. In observance of the holiday, families fly colorful flags in the shape of fish to represent their sons. The largest carp, usually black or red, represents the father. Smaller carp represent the mother and her sons. Each year, if a new son is born a fish is added to fly above the family’s home.

Carp represent the strength and determination needed to overcome obstacles just as family hopes its young boys will display in life. The Japanese consider carp a strong-willed fish that uses its power to fight its way up stream. The flags stand for the courage of boys and their ability to achieve success despite difficulties along the way.

The long narrow leaf of the iris is reminiscent of a sword, the ultimate symbol of a future samurai. Shobu, the Japanese iris, is also a symbol associated with Boy’s Day celebrations. Public bath houses open their doors early on May 5th so that people can enjoy a Shobu-yu, or iris hot bath. When spoken the sound of the word Shobu is similar to another word meaning "to strive for success".

Historically, no one is quite sure where Boy’s Day comes from. Late spring is a time when insects begin to swarm farms and harm young crops. Farmers have used large, colorful flags and figures to keep insects off plants for centuries. Gradually, their effectiveness came to represent a fighting warrior power and were used to inspire boys into manliness.

Celebrations on the 5th day of the 5th month can be traced back to 1282 in Japan. The Mongols were defeated that year by Tokimune Hojo and samurai hung flags to celebrate and spread the word of victory.

In modern Japan, May 5th is celebrated as Children’s Day, not only Boy’s Day. It is a day to appreciate loving parents and encourage the best out of a family’s greatest gift, the next generation.