Children Maypole Dancing, 1990

Maypole dancing is a ceremonial folk dance that was popular with school children in the 20th century. It is performed around a tall garlanded pole, often hung with ribbons that are woven into complex patterns by the dancers. The dances are survivals of ancient rituals that were performed around living trees as part of the rites of spring. In the village of Stewkley, Bucks, schoolchildren danced the Maypole every year for 35 years until the event was discontinued at the end of the century. Here in 1990 the event was held in the school playground, with parents and friends looking on.