Headington Oxford Homestay Guesthouse Accommodation Short-term rental

Today, on the 1st of May, the house woke up at 4:30 am- guests and all- and we went into Oxford, armed with a picnic for breakfast. We went to watch Oxford's May Day celebrations: the Magdalen College choir sing at sunrise and then wander the lively streets, enjoy a bacon buttie and coffee, before starting our "regular" day. Celebrating the Arrival of Spring May Day is a time-honored tradition in Oxford, a day when the city does not sleep from the late night parties and balls or awakens early to festivities that have been a cornerstone of the city's cultural heritage for centuries. The Roots of May Day The celebration of May Day has ancient origins, dating back to the Celtic festival of Beltane, which marked the beginning of summer. It was a time of festivity and fertility rites, designed to protect the community and ensure a bountiful harvest. In medieval times, 'bringing in the May' involved gathering flowers and greenery to decorate homes and public spaces, symbolising new life and the promise of warmer days. This practice evolved over the centuries, with one of the most enduring traditions being the Magdalen College Choir's performance from the Great Tower on May Day morning, a custom that began in the 17th century. What happens in Oxford for May Day? To date, the Magdalen College choir gathers at the top of the tower and celebrates the sunrise with songs, prayer and the ringing of the bells. Interestingly, despite its popularity, May Day has not been without controversy. The Church and State have historically opposed the pagan elements of the celebrations. However, showing Oxford's stubborn streak, these traditions have persisted and remain a part of the modern festivities. Today, Oxford's May Day is a fusion of historical customs and contemporary celebrations. Morris dancers, folk musicians, and performers fill the streets, while local businesses and the historic Covered Market join in with special early opening, events and offerings. As we had the pleasure of experiencing and showing our guests- Oxford really does come alive with festivities on May Day morning! It all kicks off with the Magdalen College Choir: At 6 am, the choir sings the Hymnus Eucharisticus from the top of Magdalen College's Great Tower Watching the Magdalen College choir in a May Day headdress The Choir on the Tower watching their audience Lion Gargoyle Morris Dancing and Folk Singing: Traditional entertainment includes Morris dancing and folk singing, adding to the festive atmosphere Morris men, Oxford Mar Day 2024 Broad Street greenery Another group of Morris Men Unique Costumes: Participants often wear unconventional costumes, wreaths, and garlands to celebrate the coming of spring Feathers, flowers.... some amazing headdresses Antlers even And full costumes and make up The Bridge of Sighs acting as backdrop to Morris Dancing and group photos May Morning Revels: The celebrations continue across Oxford with dance, music, and food, with some cafes and pubs opening from 06:30 May Day, 2024, Broad Street, Oxford Students in windows Salsa band Although the fun carried on in town till just after lunchtime, we were back home by 9 am with everyone heading off to work, school or sightseeing elsewhere. The morning was short, intense and certainly worth the 4am (or earlier) wake up. Will you join us next May?

Welcome to our homestay where you can step in as a friend and stay in our characterful, quirky and full-of-life home.

Welcome to our homestay where you can step in as a friend and stay in our characterful, quirky and full-of-life home.

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