This May, the award-winning Museum of East Dorset is bringing history to life with a month-long celebration of traditional springtime festivities.
Visitors of all ages are invited to step back in time and experience the magic of May with interactive activities, festive dances and hands-on crafts inspired by seasonal customs. There’s even a special opportunity to have a go at Morris dancing.
Families can enjoy free children’s discovery trails, exploring the museum while uncovering fun historical facts and seasonal surprises. Guests can try their hand at Maypole dancing in the beautiful museum garden, weaving colourful ribbons as they take part in this community tradition from the past.
A special Morris dancing workshop will bring energy to the festivities, with skilled dancers showcasing rhythmic steps and striking costumes. Members of Anonymous Morris from Poole and Southern Star from Corfe Mullen will be at the museum during the afternoon on Wednesday 28th May to run two beginners’ workshops on folk dancing. Why not come and have a try at Morris dancing and the traditional English folk art of longsword dancing!
For creative spirits, there will be free craft activities where children can make May crowns, decorated with flowers and greenery, to celebrate the arrival of spring. There will also be dressing up fun and opportunities to try out May traditions firsthand, from learning about historical customs, going on a flower hunt, and engaging in festive springtime rituals including the art of balancing spoons on your head!
Programming officer Aidan Hill said: “After making their own crowns, May Queens and Kings can hold court in our Victorian classroom and sentence their parents to whatever fate they wish!”
He added: “We are very excited about bringing such a lively mix of hands-on activities to the museum for all to enjoy. We’ve created the perfect place to embrace the spirit of May and discover the rich heritage behind these seasonal celebrations.”