The Forgotten Holiday of Oak Apple Day

Once a major British public holiday, Oak Apple Day celebrated the return of the monarchy. Failing to wear an oak leaf on May 29th could lead to a public shaming or even a stinging by nettles.

This unique tradition marked the 1660 restoration of King Charles II, who famously hid in an oak tree to escape his enemies. Citizens would decorate their homes with oak branches and wear oak apples to show their loyalty. Those caught without this foliage were often mocked or poked with nettles as a humorous punishment. While it eventually lost its official status, some traditionalists still celebrate it as a quirky piece of royal history.