May Day is one of the busiest days of the year in Hastings. The air is filled with the sound of motor bike engines being revved, together with beating drums, whistles and bells.
The day is an eclectic mix of traditions that bring a diverse range of people flocking to the town. But it somehow works and is an amazingly fun day.
Since the late 70’s the bikers have made their 
annual May Day run. Many gather in Locksbottom, then ride in convoy down the A21, descending on Hastings seafront, in their thousands. By mid morning the roads are congested and the car parks and streets are 
awash with gleaming, polished bikes. Their leather clad riders appreciating each other’s machines, standing proud as tourists and locals wander through the car parks admiring the bikes.
At the other end of the seafront, in the old town, another group are gathering to celebrate the ancient tradition of Jack in the Green. The festival, to welcome the beginning of Summer, was resurrected in Hastings in the early 80’s and has grown in size and stature over the years.
Jack is represented by someone dressed in a cone shaped wicker 
costume covered in foliage. He is said to depict the start of the plentifulness of the summer months and is escorted in a procession through the old town by his two bogey men, or protectors and followed by a long parade of musicians, Morris dancers, and folk dancers, all beating their drums, blowing whistles, and jingling the bells on their shoes. Many are dressed in green, with their faces painted flowers and foliage in their hair.
It is a bizzare spectacle the first time you see it, but you soon get caught up in the energy, rhythm and essence of the day.
The cobbled street route is lined with thousands of onlookers, vying for a spot to get the best view of the procession. The crowd are brought into the spirit by getting their noses painted with a splodge of green as the parade passes by.
Jack and his entourage finally makes their way to the West Hill, looming high above the Old Town, where Jack is “slain” to release the spirit of summer.
The party starts early and continues until late in the day, with music and dancing displays at various spots around the Old Town.
Two very different traditions, that somehow work in harmony. Visitors coming from far and wide to partake in one or both. The streets are packed and the atmosphere is buzzing and friendly as locals welcome thousands of tourists to our wonderful town.
Everyone enjoying the madness that is Hastings celebrating the start of Summer.