An old engraving of Mayday celebrations in the UK in the mid-1600s. It is from a Victorian history book of Dancing was a major activity and a decorated pole is in the background. May Day is a European festival of ancient origins marking the beginning of summer, usually celebrated on 1 May. A Maypole, May Tree or May Bush is the centre of the tradition, around which people dance and sing. May Day celebrations, along with other festivities like Christmas, were banned in the 1640s by the Puritans. Dancing did not return until the restoration of Charles II.


An old engraving of Mayday celebrations in the UK in the mid-1600s. It is from a Victorian history book of Dancing was a major activity and a decorated pole is in the background. May Day is a European festival of ancient origins marking the beginning of summer, usually celebrated on 1 May. A Maypole, May Tree or May Bush is the centre of the tradition, around which people dance and sing. May Day celebrations, along with other festivities like Christmas, were banned in the 1640s by the Puritans. Dancing did not return until the restoration of Charles II.


Size: 3780px × 2971px
Location: UK
Photo credit: © M&N / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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