May Day Tradition

May Day 1954 at Yocum’s School along route 724. Photo Courtesy of Jim Hain

May Day was a spring celebration tradition amongst public school kids and teenagers during the mid-20th century in Berks. The day would be marked by outside activities, singing, dancing and the crowning of a May Day Queen and court, similar to homecoming today.

May Day 1954 at Yocum’s School along route 724. Photo Courtesy of Jim Hain

It seems like May Day peaked as a tradition in the 1940s and 1950s and stopped being a yearly thing by the 1970s across the county. Do you remember partaking in May Day activities?

Wilson High School May Day celebration in 1958

Born and raised in Berks, I am fascinated by the design, architecture, culture & style of the 20th century. I started this website to research and build a collection of the places, things and stories I have heard about my entire life. Read more here.

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Jerrilyn Carter
Jerrilyn Carter
2 years ago

I remember this very well. Always loved to do the Maypole!

Scott G Hagy
Scott G Hagy
2 years ago

I started first grade at West Wyomissing Elementary School in 1954. I do remember May day activities up until I was in 3rd grade or so. By that time I think it just fizzled out.

Berks Nostalgia