Building a Maypole for May Day Celebrations
It’s actually very easy to build a smaller version of the traditional Maypole without spending a lot of money. All that you need is a garden clothes line upright or simple metal or wooden pole which can be sunk into a grassy lawn. This needs to be tested to insure the excited tugs of children will not bring it toppling down. Also, make sure there is plenty of space around the Maypole so as to avoid any nasty accidents with people bumping into fences or tripping over garden pots.
Depending on the number of children (and indeed adults) you expect to take part at any one time, attach the required number of ribbons to the Maypole you have erected. Any type of used or cheap fabric can be used although the more colourful the better. Ideally, the strips of fabric need to be at least 12 feet long if the Maypole is around 6 feet in height. Tie these pieces together at the top of the pole in a way that is secure.
For young kids, it’s best not to use rope for the aim of Maypole dancing is to interweave the fabric strips as the children wend and weave their way past one another. Soft fabrics are ideal for this without causing any damage or rope burns. If possible, you can also wrap colourful material around the pole itself to make the scene even more vibrant.
Once the Maypole is completed, it’s time to briefly discuss the history and traditions of the Maypole in your own country and around the world. Traditional Morris Dancing music can be bought online as well as example videos on Youtube. Maypole dancing is an ideal way to encourage your kids and their friends to learn about their own nation’s traditions and indeed to become excited about history. Laughter and fun will be the order of the day once the children (and adults) start to dance around the Maypole on May Day.
You can read more about the history and traditions of Maypole dancing here: The History of the Maypole in England.
