May Day Festival
Spring has arrived, and we’re celebrating the best way we know how — with games, making, music and a bit of joyful chaos.
Join us on the Piazza for an afternoon of playful activities inspired by traditional May Day celebrations. Try your hand at classic races, make something creative, explore the history behind the day, or simply enjoy the atmosphere with friends.
Drop in, bring a group, or stay for the whole afternoon.
The May Day Races
Channel your inner village fête champion. We’ll be hosting a series of light-hearted May Day races throughout the afternoon. Expect cheering crowds, friendly competition and plenty of laughs.
Races may include:
- Egg and spoon race
- Sack race
- Surprise challenges
No experience required — just enthusiasm.
Spectators strongly encouraged.
Prizes for the winners yet to be announced!
May Day Dress-up Competition
Think flowers, ribbons, spring colours, folklore characters, nature vibes or anything that celebrates the spirit of May Day. Complete your look at our free face painting stall available throughout the afternoon.
You could come as:
- A Green Man or a woodland spirit.
- A spring flower.
- A May Queen or May King.
- Something inspired by nature, folklore or festival traditions.
- Simply the most joyful spring outfit you own.
There will be prizes for the most creative looks.
Performances
Throughout the afternoon there will be moments where the Piazza fills with music, colour and traditional May Day celebrations.
You might encounter:
- The Green Man – a mysterious figure from folklore appearing among the crowd.
- Morris Dancing – energetic traditional dancing with bells, sticks and live music.
- May Pole Dancing – colourful ribbons and a joyful springtime tradition. Some performances are simply for watching, while others invite people to join in.
Make Something
Feeling creative? Drop by one of our hands-on craft activities inspired by spring traditions and community celebrations.
You can expect:
- Making flower crowns
- Zine-making
Come for five minutes or stay longer — all the materials will be provided.
Ride the Helter-Skelter
A traditional Helter-Skelter will be landing on the Piazza for the day — climb to the top and spiral all the way back down again.
Whether reliving childhood memories or trying it for the first time, it’s a perfect excuse to embrace the festival atmosphere.
Free Ice-Cream
To celebrate the arrival of spring, we’ll be giving away free ice cream to the first 300 people who join us on the Piazza.
Once they’re gone, they’re gone — so arrive early if you want to grab one.
Do you remember our Picnic
Playground?
Did you join us for our fun event last summer? Whether you want to remind yourself of the fun or you want to see how Together at Warwick delivers a touch of playful joyful chaos, click above to see the memory gallery.