Merry May Day

This event is organised in collaboration with Holywood District Community Council..

Always a popular family day out, the Merry May Day celebrations have become a long tradition in the bustling gateway town of Holywood.

The town will be transformed into a pedestrianised hub of activity. Expect delicious savoury and sweet treats on offer from a food stall market.

Enjoy funfair rides, Jump, Jiggle and Jive, the annual Bonnie Baby Competition as well as a fantastic Maypole Programme. Browse and buy from the bric-a-brac stalls, and from our wonderful artists and makers at Art on the Rails.

Musical performances will add to the ambience of a great day out, and of course the display of dance by local school children around the Island's only Maypole is a highlight!

Maypole Programme 

10:45am             Crowning of May Queen11:00 - 11:30         Maypole Dancers11:45 - 12:15         McEIhinney School of Dance12:30 - 12:45         Fancy Dress Comp + prize givings13:00 - 13:30         Maypole Dancers 13:45 - 14:00         Holywood Community Set Dancing Class 14:15 - 14:45         Sullivan Prep Choir   

Free to attend

SustainabilityWe encourage visitors to travel via public transport.  Please dispose of rubbish at the recycling stations provided. Read more about Sustainability. 

Getting here

Public transport - nearest rail stop is Holywood, located approx a 10 minute walk from the town centre. For bus stop detail and information on timetables, visit Translink.co.uk

By car - Follow directional road signs to Holywood.

Car parking | Ards and North Down Borough Council | Free to use | Charged

Event site | Useful information

Road closures | Please note, there will be some disruption to traffic in Holywood on Friday 3 May between 9am and 11am, as preparations/practice for May Day’s Maypole dancing are taking place. Road Closures will also be in effect on May Day, Monday 6 May 2024 to facilitate the May Day event. Holywood Town Centre will be closed from 6am – 6pm including High Street, Church Road and Shore Road.

Recycling | When disposing of rubbish please use the recycling stations when on-site. Please note, the usual waste bins on-site will not be in use during the event. Please help us continue our sustainability commitment to zero contamination at events by using the correct bin. There will be team members from Recycling on hand to provide advice and help you put your rubbish in the correct bin.

Accessibility | All flat surfaces on hard concrete. Accessoloo will be in attendance.

Dogs | Are permitted, to remain on lead at all times. 

Lost children | with crowds anticipated please pick up a wristband for children at the Visitor Information caravan. 

Please note, details subject to change.

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[Please note, photography and videography may take place at some/all of these events].

Entrance Fee