Hastings Traditional Jack in the Green

The largest event of its kind in the country, Hastings Traditional Jack in the Green is an annual folk custom that was revived in Hastings in 1983 by Mad Jack’s Morris, now known as Hastings RX Morris.

Taking place over the May Day bank holiday weekend, expect lots of traditional dancing from performers from all over the country, captivating concerts from some of the best folk acts, and join in with fantastic ceilidhs and music sessions.

The main event is ‘Jack’ (a Jack-in-the-green), a man completely covered in foliage topped with a floral crown. He bursts onto the streets of Hastings and leads the procession through the town. After a day of fun and merry-making he is stripped of his leaves to release the spirit of summer. Catch a leaf and have a year of good luck!