May Day weekend is almost upon us, and it’s time to celebrate the start of summer. Okay, so it might be raining, but all the more reason to put on your glad rags and summon the sun! Whether you’re looking for family fun, good old fashioned romance or a traditional knees-up, here are HeadingThere’s picks of the best things to do this May Day bank holiday, 5th to 7th of May.
Nuts in May Music Festival, Cumbria
Enjoy a weekend of music and festivities in the heart of the Cumbrian countryside. The six stages at this festival cater for all musical tastes, with acts ranging from folk and indie to rock and reggae. Traditional workshops, maypole dancing and a woodland setting make this a great family festival. Adult weekend tickets are a bargain at £34, and under 12s go free.
Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza, Wales
Dress in your finery and travel back in time to Victorian England this May Day weekend. The seaside town of Llandudno will be overtaken by all things vintage Victoriana, from steam contraptions and fairground rides to side shows and live entertainment. The highlight is the Grand Parade at 1 pm every day, when marching bands, vintage vehicles and street entertainers put on a jolly good show as they make their way through Llandudno’s beautiful Victorian streets.
Breakin’ Convention, London
For a truly contemporary May Day Bank holiday, head to Sadler’s Wells in east London for the Breakin’ Convention. This International Festival of Hip Hop Dance-Theatre showcases the best companies from all over the world, with explosive live performances all weekend. Acts include the UK’s Flawless and Good Foot dance troops. Workshops for all levels take place throughout the weekend, so you can get some breaking tips from the best in the business. Day tickets cost £20 (seated) £15 (standing).
May Day in Albion Fete, Brighton
In terms of traditional May Day celebrations, Brighton is the best place to be this bank holiday weekend. Time honoured customs including May Games, Mummers Plays, Maypole Dancing and Music Hall performances occur whilst revellers make-merry and mingle with Morris dancers. Don’t forget your ribbons and shoe-bells.
The Galleries of Justice Museum, Nottingham
Head to the Galleries of Justice Museum for a special bank holiday weekend with a Robin Hood theme. See the dastardly Sherriff of Nottingham conduct a live trial before taking a tour of the museum’s exhibitions. Highlights include a gruesome gaol complete with costumed law enforcers and chilling tales of ghosts and ghouls. Fancy making your own castle or medieval knight’s helmet? These are just two of the free craft events taking place for kids. Tours are £9.50 for adults, £7.50 for children.
Putting on your own event for May Day bank holiday weekend? Tell everyone about it here.
