Celebrate the arrival of early summer at Chelsea Physic Garden with a joyful exploration of May Day traditions, plants and folklore.

This hands-on workshop takes inspiration from the long-standing custom of ‘bringing in the May’, where flowering branches, greenery and garlands were gathered at dawn to welcome the turning of the season. Guided by the Garden’s rich botanical setting, you will create your own May garland or floral adornment using seasonal plant materials, drawing on historic practices of celebration, protection and renewal.

The session also includes a themed May Day tour of the Garden, uncovering the stories, symbolism and uses of plants associated with spring festivals, fertility rites and the shift into summer. From hawthorn blossom to fragrant herbs, discover how people have marked this moment in the year for centuries.

A gentle, creative and seasonal experience rooted in place, plant knowledge and tradition.