May 1 – May 4
Jack in the Green is a traditional May Day celebration that began in England, especially in southern counties such as Sussex and Kent. This vibrant event blends ancient pagan customs with later Christian traditions.
Hastings hosts the largest festival of its kind in the country. It usually takes place on the first weekend of May and draws crowds of locals and visitors. The towering Jack in the Green figure leads the parade, covered in lush greenery. Morris dancers, musicians and revellers adorned in fresh foliage accompany him through the streets.
A unique feature of the Hastings celebration is the “Rising of the Jack.” On the morning of May Day, performers “awaken” the effigy during a ceremony at the Fishermen’s Museum. Enthusiastic onlookers attend the ritual, which signals the start of the day’s festivities.
At its core, the festival celebrates the arrival of spring and the renewal of nature. London milkmaids and chimney sweeps likely began the Jack in the Green tradition in the 17th century. The central figure resembles a walking tree or bush and musicians, dancers and revelers follow him in the procession. People often link Jack in the Green with the Green Man, a symbol of rebirth and growth.
This is an extremely popular event so please BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION EARLY to avoid disappointment.
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