May Day: History, Traditions & Celebrations!

WALT: We Are Learning To explore the history and traditions of May Day A journey through time and culture Year 4 Level - Whole School Assembly

What do you think May Day is?

Turn to your partner and share your ideas Think about what happens in May Have you seen dancing around a tall pole? Let's hear some of your thoughts!

What is May Day?

May Day is celebrated on May 1st every year It's a very old tradition - over 2000 years old! It celebrates the beginning of summer People dance, sing and have fun together

Let's Count to May!

Everyone stand up! Let's count the months to May January, February, March, April... MAY! When we say 'MAY' - jump up high!

The History of May Day

Maypole Dancing

The maypole is a tall wooden pole It has lots of colorful ribbons People dance around it holding the ribbons The ribbons make beautiful patterns

Let's Practice Maypole Dancing!

Everyone stand in a circle Imagine you're holding a ribbon Walk around in a circle to the right Now change direction - walk to the left!

May Day Around the World

{"left":"England: Morris dancing with bells and sticks\nScotland: Washing faces in morning dew\nGermany: Dancing around the Maibaum tree","right":"Hawaii: Lei Day with flower garlands\nFrance: Giving lily-of-the-valley flowers\nSweden: Singing traditional May songs"}

Which May Day tradition sounds most fun to you?

Dancing with bells like Morris dancers? Making flower crowns? Singing songs together? Dancing around the maypole?

Let's Remember May Day!

May Day is on May 1st It's a very old celebration about summer starting People dance around maypoles with ribbons Different countries have their own special ways to celebrate It's about community, joy, and welcoming spring!