Historic St. Mary’s City is set to embrace the spring season with its annual May Day celebration on Saturday, May 4, 2024. The event, a blend of history and tradition, promises a day filled with vibrant activities from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Town Center.
The centerpiece of the celebration, the maypole dance, is a festive highlight where participants dance around a tall pole adorned with ribbons and spring flowers. This tradition not only symbolizes the vitality of the new season but also serves as a focal point for community gathering and celebration.
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities that honor spring traditions. One of the key highlights includes the crowning of the May Queen, a nod to the historical customs that celebrate fertility and the renewal of the earth. The event also offers a chance for all attendees, regardless of age, to partake in the maypole dancing, fostering a sense of community and shared joy.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Foggy Bottom Morris Men will perform Morris Dancing, a folk dance that dates back to the 15th century. This group, known for their dedication to preserving this lively tradition, brings an authentic and energetic element to the celebration.
Further enriching the event, Ann Marie Gardens will provide guidance for natural crafts, allowing participants to create their own pieces of spring-themed art. These activities, included with the price of general admission, offer a hands-on experience that connects visitors with nature.
Historic St. Mary’s City, an outdoor museum of living history and archaeology, is dedicated to the preservation and presentation of Maryland’s early history. This event not only celebrates the arrival of spring but also the area’s rich historical tapestry.
For more information or to plan a visit, interested parties can contact the Visitor Center at 301-994-4370, 800-SMC-1634, or via email at info@digshistory.org.
