May Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is a festival observed in numerous Waldorf Schools across the Northern Hemisphere. Rooted in ancient traditions heralding the onset of summer, this celebration holds deep significance. Referred to as Beltane in Celtic cultures and honored by the Romans in reverence to the goddess Flora, May Day remains a beloved and enduring tradition.
At the heart of May Day festivities lies the enchanting Maypole dance, a jubilant spectacle that often takes center stage during the celebration. Adorned with garlands, the May Pole symbolizes the tree of life and the burgeoning growth of springtime flora.
At London Waldorf School, it is time for children in Grade Four to learn the Maypole dance. They learn to stop and listen, to dance and weave around one another, to pause and look up. The intricate designs that appear on the Maypole are beautiful!! They reflect the beauty of many people working together, learning where one another exists in space, dancing around and working with, and following one and leading the next. It’s a beautiful representation of a community of individuals working together and the surprising outcomes we can achieve together.
Our Annual Mayfair Event will take place on Sunday, May 5th from 1:00 to 3:30 pm and, the traditional Maypole dance takes place at 1:00 sharp.