Summer is a-coming in! A May Day Celebration
Join us for a spellbinding evening of plant folklore and seasonal ritual as we celebrate May Day and the Celtic festival of Beltane, marking the arrival of summer.
This immersive, interactive event begins with a welcome from the Spring Spirit of the Garden, who will guide you through an enchanting twilight tour of May’s abundant blooms. Along the way, discover the stories, symbolism and botanical traditions that have long accompanied this turning point in the year.
As dusk gathers, witness a theatrical ‘handing over’ of the seasons: the Winter Hag relinquishes her reign to the Summer Goddess in a performance that draws on myth, humour and living folklore. The evening culminates in a joyful Beltane sing-along and participatory ritual, inviting you to mark the shift into longer, warmer days.
The tour and performances are led by Maria Beadell, actor, writer and founder of Herstorical Tours. Expect outdoor live performance, comedy, song and original artwork woven together in a vibrant celebration of the changing season.
Part of Folklore ReRooted, Chelsea Physic Garden’s 2026 folklore theme exploring ritual and storytelling as they unfold across the turning seasons.
Date And Time
Friday, May 1, 2026 08:00 PM