Happy May Day! Once upon a time, the first of May was celebrated with bouquets, secret gifts and Maypole dancing! In May 2013, the Park Board celebrated its centennial, marking 100 years since the board was formed in 1913. The celebration at Phelps Grove Park featured activities and artifacts from 1913: a brass band, 5-cent Cokes, antique cars, and a Maypole! We were so impressed that folks knew exactly how to do the dance!

Never heard of a Maypole? It’s a tall pole, topped with long colorful ribbons, which dancers hold as they walk circles around the pole, creating a woven pattern. Check out this article posted by the Springfield-Greene County Library, for details on how Maypoles works.

Unfortunately, Maypole dancing is currently prohibited by the stay-home ordinance. But you can grab some ribbons and dance around alone at Phelps Grove or any park or trail. Be smart while you’re frolicking: stay six feet away from others, avoid gathering in groups, cover your coughs and sneezes, and stay home if you’re showing symptoms of illness.