In the Edwardian period, May Day was second only to Christmas in popularity and each town or village all over the country would have its own range of traditions and customs.
Saturday, 4th May
- Head to our 1900s Pit Village to learn about the tradition of May Birching, where twigs and flowers were collected and placed outside homes.
- At 1820s Pockerley Old Hall enjoy traditional music and clog dancing.
- See barrel-making demonstrations with our visiting cooper at 1820s Pockerley Old Hall.
Sunday, 5th May
- Have a go at Jack in the Green mask making in our 1900s Pit Village school.
- Enjoy performances by folk ensembles and Morris dancing teams in our 1900s Pit Village, including:
– Northern Roots
– Monkseaton Morris - At 1820s Pockerley Old Hall enjoy traditional music and clog dancing.
- See barrel-making demonstrations with our visiting cooper at 1820s Pockerley Old Hall.
Monday, 6th May
- Have a go at Jack in the Green mask making in our 1900s Pit Village school.
- Take part in traditional Maypole dancing in our 1900s Pit Village. At approximately 3.30pm we will also be crowning our May Day King and Queen.
- Enjoy performances by folk ensembles and Morris dancing teams in our 1900s Pit Village, including:
– Axum Folk Ensemble
– Black Gate Morris
– Hexham Morris Men and Hexhamshire Lasses - At 1820s Pockerley Old Hall enjoy traditional music and clog dancing.
Our May Day Celebrations are included in museum admission and are free to Beamish Unlimited Pass holders and Friends of Beamish members, pay once and visit free for a year!
Beamish reserves the right to alter events, activities, facilities, operations and opening times without prior notice.