Slaying of the Jack
Spectators can watch the ceremonial slaying on West Hill, a vibrant culmination of the Morris dance procession (viewing from West Hill picnic area is popular).
~15:00
Hastings Traditional Jack in the Green
Hastings, United Kingdom
May 1 - 4, 2026ConfirmedSource
Each May Day, the town of Hastings fills its streets with greenery and chimney sweeps for the Jack in the Green. A leaf-covered figure dances at the heart of a costumed procession, in a revival of an old Victorian May custom brought back to life in the 1980s, a joyful welcome to the spring.
Key moments
Day 4 · May 4
Where it happens
Hastings Old Town
Hastings, United Kingdom
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Dress for the setting
Comfortable footwear
Read the local rhythm
Water and sun protection
Arrive before peak flow
Knowledge of procession route
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd level: high.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Reviewed mediaREGIONAL COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Hastings Traditional Jack in the Green
Hastings, United Kingdom
Each May Day, the town of Hastings fills its streets with greenery and chimney sweeps for the Jack in the Green. A leaf-covered figure dances at the heart of a costumed procession, in a revival of an old Victorian May custom brought back to life in the 1980s, a joyful welcome to the spring.
Under the radarStill under the radar
May 1 - 4, 2026Confirmed dates
Verified this year
Saved locally on this device. A free account keeps your shortlist across devices.
The story behind it
Originating from 17th-century May Day customs, Jack-in-the-Green was revived in Hastings during the 1980s. It combines pagan fertility rites (the greenery Jack figure symbolizing spring and renewal) with local heritage. The procession weaves through Hastings Old Town, connecting modern residents with this distinct piece of cultural heritage.
Key moments to know
Day 4May 4~15:00Expected
Slaying of the Jack
Spectators can watch the ceremonial slaying on West Hill, a vibrant culmination of the Morris dance procession (viewing from West Hill picnic area is popular).
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Dress for the setting
Comfortable footwear
Read the local rhythm
Water and sun protection
Arrive before peak flow
Knowledge of procession route
Essentials at a glance
Date window
May 1 - 4, 2026
Confirmed
City / Area
Hastings
Hastings (East Sussex)
Cost
Free public events available
Good for
Families welcome
Very High visitor welcome
If you go, go with confidence.
Save this celebration to keep the date correct, get planning guidance, follow key moment updates, and build your trip around what matters.
Plan with confidence
Get your Attendance Blueprint
Travel solo with ease
Find tips and support that make it simple
Stay date-correct
We'll watch the date so you don't have to