April 30, 2027 – May 3, 2027
About
Jack in the Green is one of Hastings’ most popular annual events. It ranks among the largest traditional May Day celebrations in the UK. The festival takes place over the Early May Bank Holiday weekend. It transforms Hastings Old Town into a vibrant celebration of music, dancing, folklore and community spirit. Thousands of visitors attend each year.
The festival centres on the Jack. This towering figure is covered in greenery and flowers. Drummers, Morris dancers, giants, musicians and costumed performers accompany it. Together they lead colourful processions through the narrow streets of the Old Town.
Hastings May Day Festival
Hastings serves as the home of the modern Jack in the Green. The town hosts the largest event of its kind in the UK.
Across the weekend, visitors enjoy Morris dancing, live music, street performances and family-friendly entertainment throughout the Old Town.
The festival stands as a major highlight of the Sussex cultural calendar. It attracts visitors from across the UK. Many travel to experience the unique atmosphere of Hastings during May Day celebrations.
Rising of the Jack Ceremony in Hastings
The Rising of the Jack ceremony takes place on the morning of May Day. The procession begins at the Fishermen’s Museum and moves along Rock-a-Nore Road.
It continues through All Saints Street, crosses The Bourne and proceeds down the High Street. The procession often pauses here, where the Jack meets visiting dance groups and performers take a short break.
The route then climbs Croft Road and Collier Road towards the West Hill.
The ceremony ends on the West Hill. The Jack is traditionally slain to release the spirit of summer. An afternoon of folk music and Morris dancing follows.
Origins of the Tradition
Jack in the Green traces back to historic May Day customs from the 17th and 18th centuries. The tradition links to chimney sweeps and milkmaids.
They decorated themselves with flowers and greenery to celebrate spring.
Today, the Hastings festival continues this tradition in a modern form. The Jack represents the Green Man, a symbol of nature, renewal and growth.
Plan Your Visit
This is an extremely popular event so please BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION EARLY to avoid disappointment.
Please check dates & times of events with the organisers.
We cannot be held responsible for alteration or cancellation of any events.
Jack in the Green – Procession Route