A Spring tradition, the history of the Maypole, on the first of May, spans centuries and continents, with its origins as varied as the costumes. | CBS Sunday Morning

Exploring the Tradition of Maypole Dancing

Yesterday, we put up our traditional maypole! Maypoles have a long history in Britain, dating back to at least the medieval period, although their origins likely stretch further into pre-Christian times. Traditionally erected on 1st May to celebrate the arrival of spring, these tall wooden poles were decorated with flowers, ribbons, and greenery. The Maypole dance, where people weave ribbons around the pole in a circular motion, symbolises the unity of nature’s renewal and the fertility of the l

Celebrate #Beltane with #Maypole Dancing! Join us next weekend, May 3-5 for 2024 Circle Sanctuary #BeltaneFestival. Rituals, Workshops, Bonfire, Morris Dancers, Handfasting, Maypole, Drumming, May Magic! Learn more & be sure to register by May 1: circlesanctuary.org/beltane | Selena Fox