Tudor May Day
Kentwell Tudors Over May Day Weekend
May Day was the most popular holiday in Tudor times with lots of merrymaking. It is also one of Kentwell's most popular events of the year. Expect processions, plays and pageantry with lots of music and dancing.
The event is based at the Barns Sward on the Farm to create a village atmosphere.
Evey day of the weekend there are processions - bringin in the tree, usually led by a Jack O'Green, covered in greenery, and processing the May Queen (selected from one of the young girls on the manor).
Traditional Mummers' plays of the time are performed (in which good always ultimately overcomes evil!). There is much music and dance as well as revelry and ribaldry.
Apart from the Tudors at the Barns area, there are also Tudors at the House: Cooks, Retainers and Gentry, and also the Dairy, Bakehouse, Stillroom & Needlewomen.
This year, Kentwell expects to have over 100 Tudors taking part.