The traditional Jack in the Green is an annual event in the historic seaside town of Hastings. It is deeply rooted in ancient pagan traditions and celebrations and is closely associated with May Day and the arrival of spring. The four-day event attracts thousands of people from the UK and beyond.
Through this guide, you will learn about the origins of Jack in the Green, its development, traditional events and tips for enjoying it. In addition, you will also find out when Hastings will hold Jack in the Green in 2025 and additional events.
Besides, we highly recommend Jackery Portable Power Station, a portable power supply for powering your electronics and devices during this event. It can easily fit in your backpack.
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Key Takeaways: |
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- Jack in the Green is a British folk custom whose earliest records date back to the 17th century. - Hastings' Jack in the Green event in 2025 will start on May 2 (Saturday) and last until May 5 (Tuesday). - Jack in the Green combines ancient May Day customs with parades, music, dance, and flower decorations. - To celebrate Jack in the Green in the UK, you must understand the festival's background, plan, respect traditions, uphold environmental protection concepts, and bring portable power stations. - During the celebration of Jack in the Green in Hastings, in addition to the grand parade, you will also have the opportunity to experience music performances, story-sharing sessions, handicrafts and other activities. - We recommend putting Jackery Explorer 100 Plus or 300 Plus in your bag to ensure a consistent power supply. |
Jack in the Green Overview
Jack in the Green is a British folk custom. It originated from British folklore and began in the 17th century during the British May Day celebrations. The tall Jack leads the parade through the ancient lanes of the old town of Hastings, flanked by his green bucket cart. People will wear cone-shaped or conical wicker or wooden frames decorated with leaves on their heads and participate in the parade accompanied by music.
The Meaning of Jack in the Green
Jack is the core of the festival "Jack in the Green" and a character with deep natural symbols in British folk culture. His image of wearing a crown woven with branches and leaves and covering his body with leaves or flowers originated from the ancient European worship of the "Green Man". This image may have originated from the ancient Celtic belief of celebrating the change of seasons by personifying the power of nature.
The Historical Origin of Jack in the Green
The earliest record of Jack in the Green dates back to the 17th century, from a description of the May Day parade in London in 1770. According to relevant research, it originated from the custom of milkmaids in the 17th century, who carried milk buckets decorated with flowers and other items in the parade. Later, the decorated milk buckets were gradually replaced by wooden frames decorated with leaves worn on the head.
The Development of Jack in the Green
Although Jack in the Green was first recorded in the 17th century, it was not until the 19th century that other occupational groups, such as chimney sweeps, adopted the tradition.
However, Jack in the Green gradually declined in the early 20th century and was not revived until the late 20th century. In 1983, Hastings revived Jack in the Green, which became an important event on the calendar of Hastings Old Town. Gradually, the tradition of "Jack in the Green" May Day parades began to be revived in various parts of England. "Jack in the Green" has also been incorporated into multiple modern pagan parades and activities.
In recent years, the custom of Jack in the Green has been revived in various parts of the UK, such as Oxford, Bristol, and Knutsford. Even May fairs in North America feature Jack in the Green events.
When Is Jack in the Green in 2025?
This four-day traditional folk event, held in the Hastings area of the UK, attracts thousands of people from all over the UK and the world.
The event is usually celebrated for four days around the first Monday in May (Early May Bank Holiday). According to the UK statutory holiday schedule, the Early May Bank Holiday in 2025 is May 5 (Monday), so the event usually starts the weekend before the bank holiday.
The 2025 Jack in the Green event will start on May 2 (Saturday) and last until May 5 (Tuesday).
This long weekend event in Hastings includes live bands, dancing, sunshine, and social activities suitable for the whole family. Hastings' annual "Jack in the Green" is a celebration of May Day in the UK that cannot be missed.
However, the specific daily event time may be slightly adjusted due to local organisation arrangements. For the latest information, it is recommended that you check Hastings' local tourism agency or official announcement in advance.
Jack in the Green Parade
In Hastings, the "Jack in the Green" festival was revived in 1983 and has become one of Hastings' most popular festivals. The festival incorporates the ancient customs of May Day and features parades, music, dancing and flower decorations to celebrate the arrival of spring. Here are the details about the Jack in the Green parade (May 5, 2025): (Event times are approximate.)
Jack is Released
Location: The Fishermen's Museum, Rock-a-Nore Road, Hastings, England, TN34, United Kingdom
Event Time: 10:15 am - 10:20 am (Monday, May 5, 2025)
Jack in the Green parades usually kicks off with a "rally". Before people start the parade, the gathering point is next to the tall Fishermen's Museum in Hastings Old Town Stadium.
When Jack, wearing a giant green leaf cape and a flower crown on his head, emerges from The Fishermen's Museum, he draws cheers from the crowd. Jack's attendants (the goblins), dressed in green rags and leaves, begin to beat drums. Jack will then dance with members of the Hastings RX Women's Team.
The Procession
Location: Hastings, England, TN34 3as, United Kingdom
Event Time: 10:20 am - 11:20 am (Monday, May 5, 2025)
Jack, accompanied by the Bogies and Sal, leads the grand procession through the streets of Hastings Old Town. Next, Jack will lead the procession along Rock Knoll Road to the extremely narrow All Saints Street to kick off the procession.
Jack and the goblins (the twelve goblins) walk through Hastings Old Town, and the other characters in the procession are also very eye-catching.
The Jack in the Green parade features many local Morris dance groups, including Crazy Jack Morris. Following closely behind the Morris dance group are the chimney sweeps holding high brushes.
Next is a group of women dressed in purple and pink (Hannah's Cat Morris), dancing and waving handkerchiefs. There is also a group of ladies and bogies dressed in folk costumes, some of which are more neo-pagan and even slightly gothic.
The following are giant papier-mache statues of Molly, about 12 feet tall. Each giant statue represents a local town, and its shape depends on its history and characteristics.
Break in the High Street
Location: High Street, Hastings, England, TN34, United Kingdom
Event Time: 11:15 am - 12:00 pm (Monday, May 5, 2025)
After about an hour of parading, the parade will stop on the High Street for 45 minutes. The street may be crowded during this break because the Morris dancers may perform a few dances, and Jack will return to the High Street.
After the break, the parade will regroup and move along Croft Road and Collier Road to West Hill.
Arrival at The West Hill
Location: Castle Hill Road, Hastings, England, TN34 3rd, United Kingdom
Event Time: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm (Monday, May 5, 2025)
The parade arrives at the castle on West Hill just before noon. At the West Hill, Morris Sides will perform their signature dance. In addition to the dance, there will be food stalls selling delicious snacks, a craft market selling homemade goods, beer tents, and family entertainment. However, barbecues are not allowed on the West Hill.
The slaying of Jack
Location: Castle Hill Road, Hastings, England, TN34, United Kingdom
Event Time: 4:00 pm - 4:15 pm (Monday, May 5, 2025)
After some singing and dancing, Jack is carried to the main stage and symbolically slain by the Morris Dancers of Mad Jack. His death symbolises the release of the breath of summer. People can look forward to and enjoy the coming good weather. Finally, the servants distribute the leaves to Jack's body. If yours falls, it means good luck.
Tips for Celebrating Jack in the Green
Here are some practical tips for celebrating Jack in the Green in the UK to help you make the most of this unique traditional festival.
Tip 1: Understand the Background of the Festival
Before participating, you can briefly understand the origins of the nature worship and spring celebration in Jack in the Green to enhance your experience. For example, Jack in the Green originated from the ancient tradition in the Hastings area, and the image of the "green man" covered with green plants symbolises the rebirth of nature.
Tip 2: Plan Ahead
Since most festival activities are held outdoors, check the weather in advance and prepare sun or rain protection equipment. Some popular activities may require reservations or tickets. Check the official website in advance.
Tip 3: Dress Yourself
You can wear green or natural clothes. For example, you can collect non-toxic ivy, ferns or flowers in advance and make a "green man" costume with natural materials. You can even paint your face with leaves or vines.
Tip 4: Experience Traditional Dance and Music
Morris Dancing is an integral part of the festival. Dancers wear costumes decorated with bells and ribbons and dance with sticks or handkerchiefs. Many celebrations during Jack in the Green will have live bands playing traditional folk songs and dance music.
Tip 5: Respect Tradition
Talk to locals and learn what Jack in the Green means to them. You may hear interesting stories or legends. Be sure to avoid jokes or inappropriate imitations, and respect the locals' reverence for nature and the seriousness of the celebration. And be polite when greeting or taking photos with performers in the parade.
Tip 6: Environmental Protection and Sustainable Concept
The core of Jack in the Green is nature worship, so try to use recyclable or natural decoration materials. When participating in any activities, pay attention to protecting the environment and not leaving garbage.
Tip 7: Bring a Portable Power Station
During the traditional parade celebrating Jack in the Green, if you want to use mobile phones, cameras, drones, and other electronic devices to record the wonderful moments but are afraid of insufficient power, a portable power station can provide a stable power supply. For example, the Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station weighs only 2.13 lbs (0.965 kg), making it very portable.
Jackery Portable Power Stations Explained
A portable power station can be a valuable asset for various aspects of the UK Jack in the Green event, enhancing the experience for organisers, participants, and attendees.
For more miniature stages, musical acts in processions, or amplified announcements where mains power isn't readily available. This eliminates the need for noisy generators in certain areas. To illuminate stalls, performance areas, or pathways, especially as the day transitions into the evening. This provides safety and enhances the atmosphere.
For tourists or attendees, the portable power station can charge mobile phones, cameras, tablets, and other essential devices for communication, photography, and event management.
Jackery is the leading brand for portable power supplies, especially solar-powered products. Jackery Portable Power Station is a portable powerhouse that provides enough electricity for the Jack in the Green event. We recommend the Jackery Explorer 100 Plus and 300 Plus portable power stations here.
Jackery Explorer 300 Plus
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Additional Activities to Celebrate Jack in the Green in 2025
Jack in the Green events usually includes lively Morris dancing, folk music and a grand parade around Hastings Old Town on Bank Holiday Monday (May 5, 2025). However, during Hastings' Jack in the Green celebrations, you will have the opportunity to experience the following events in addition to the grand parade:
Red Set Girls and Jack in the Green
Location: Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, Bohemia Road, Hastings, England, TN34 1et, United Kingdom
Event Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm (Friday, May 2, 2025)
Red Set Girls and Jack in the Green will present a celebration of folklore, resistance and identity through the lens of visual art, music and performance. The event pays tribute to Isaac Mendes Bellisario's historical illustrations, focusing on his iconic depictions of the "Red Girls" and "Jack in the Green".
Garland and Headdress Workshop
Location: Classroom on the Coast, The Stade, Hastings, England, TN34 3fj, United Kingdom
Event Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm (Saturday, May 3, 2025)
It is a free event for all ages and is excellent for the whole family. Feel free to make a garland or headdress using the materials provided free of charge, but children must be supervised at all times. Bookings are not required for this arts and crafts workshop, but it is essential to go early to avoid crowds.
Dancing around the Old Town
Location: Hastings, England, TN34 3as, United Kingdom
Event Time: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm (Saturday, May 3, 2025)
Hastings RX Morris and Hannah's Cat will dance in the Stade Piazza at Hastings Contemporary. After the Stade Piazza show, the band will continue to perform in the Old Town.
Carnival of Giants - Storytelling
Location: Fishermen's Museum, Rock-a-Nore RoadHastings, England, TN34 3DWUnited Kingdom
Event Time: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm (Sunday, May 4, 2025)
Ed Boxall will share a range of his own original stories and old folk tales. Here, you will hear stories about giants. You can even enjoy a new story poem written by Ed to celebrate Jack in the Green.
Rattlebag Family Friendly Singaround
Location: Hastings Fishermen's Museum, Rock-a-Nore RoadHastings, England, TN34 3DWUnited Kingdom
Event Time: 3:00 pm 4:00 pm (Sunday, May 4, 2025)
Rattlebag is a five-piece a cappella band that will entertain people with folk and contemporary songs. During Jack in the Green, they ask the audience to wear green clothing, leaves or flowers in their hair or hats while they sing and listen to the songs.
Morris Dancers' Breakfast
Location: St Clements Church, High Street, Hastings, England, TN34, United Kingdom
Event Time: 7:30 am - 9:00 am (Monday, May 5, 2025)
From 7:30 am to 9 am, you can enjoy a "not-for-profit" breakfast at St Clement's Church. Here, you can enjoy a continental breakfast, sausage or bacon bread (vegetarian options available) and various hot and cold drinks.
All proceeds will be donated to a local charity (The Two Towers Trust) that helps preserve the medieval churches in the old town.
Jack in the Green FAQs
The following are the frequently asked questions about the Jack in the Green 2025:
1. What does Jack in the Green represent?
Jack in the Green is an essential symbol in traditional British folk culture. According to Wikipedia, in pre-Christian times, it was often revered as a god of nature and fertility. Today, it is usually thought to symbolise the resurrection of spring, the prosperity of nature, and the vitality of life.
2. When did Jack in the Green start?
Most people believe the Jack in the Green tradition originated in 18th-century England. However, the earliest records show that it originated from the May Day tradition in the 17th century.
3. Is Jack in the Green a pagan festival?
Although Jack in the Green has been interpreted as a remnant of pre-Christian fertility rituals and the symbol of the Green Man, it is not a pagan festival in a religious sense. It is simply a folk custom originating from the May Day celebrations, colourfully showing the interweaving of ancient pagan customs and modern Christian traditions.
4. Where is Jack in the Green usually celebrated?
Jack in the Green originated in Sussex and Kent in southern England. Today, it is mainly celebrated in Hastings, a historic seaside town in East Sussex. Although it can be seen in many places, such as Bristol, Oxford, and Knutsford, Hastings is the grandest and richest place to celebrate.
Final Thoughts
In short, Hastings's traditional Jack in the Green is a celebration not to be missed on May Day in the UK. At Hastings' Jack in the Green, you can experience the traditional parade and see unique folk art landscapes such as dancers, drummers, giants and various conventional characters. If you want to participate in the Jack in the Green parade, you can wear green clothes woven from leaves and flowers. Don't forget to bring a portable power station (such as Jackery Portable Power Station) to power your mobile phone, camera, drone, etc., in time to record the wonderful moments of Jack in the Green
