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May Day - May 1
Wed, May 1, 2024

May Day

May Day is a bright and interesting celebration. This holiday is celebrated with flair, with the obligatory organization of fairs, parades, and unique street festivities.

The History

May Day appeared in 1978. Historians disagree on the events that lead to this holiday. Some believe its origins date laid back in to the Roman Empire. With the advent of summer, people worshiped and thanked the goddess of nature, rejoicing in the gentle sun’s rays and fragrant flowers. Others believe holiday appeared because of ancient rituals helping people in agriculture. The symbol of worship was the Tree of Peace (Maypole), which connected heaven and earth.

Today’s traditions of the May Day are quite similar to the ancient rituals. People dance under the maypole (often a simple pole residents set up in the center and decorate with colorful ribbons). People dress up as Jack-in-the-Green, putting on fresh greens.

Interesting Facts

In different parts of England, celebration of May Day has different characteristics.

  1. The festivities begin the night before. People visit pubs and clubs and have a lot of fun. At 5 am, they can go up to the roof of Magdalen College tower and loudly sing the traditional anthem marking the beginning of the May Day.
  2. In small towns and villages in the southwest of Britain, people keep the old traditions, choosing the Queen and the King of May, who lead the holiday.
  3. In the daytime, mass celebrations are held. At night, people light bonfires, sing, and dance until the morning.

When is May Day celebrated in 2024?

May Day is observed on May 1 each year.

Observations

Weekday Month Day Year
Wednesday May 1 2024
Thursday May 1 2025

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