16,000 people attend May Morning celebrations in Oxford

The tradition, which are more than 500 years old, begins at 6am with Magdalen College Choir singing from the college’s Great Tower. A crowd of about 16,000 people, stretching down the High St to the Plain, stood in silence to listen to the choir.

Events and activities, including Morris dancing, folk music, samba and jazz showed the exuberance of spring life, with the Green Man and other folk figures gracing the city centre.

 “May Morning is a uniquely Oxford tradition and makes us proud to be Oxonians. It’s very special to witness the quiet gathering beneath the tower, the beautiful music, and the sense of being part of something that stretches back through centuries.

“We’re very proud to support this tradition. Thanks to everyone who attended and who worked on the event for making this such an enjoyable, friendly celebration, and well done to the dancers, musicians, artists and businesses who provided more celebration in the city centre.”

Councillor Shaista Aziz, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Communities and Culture

The May Morning event at Magdalen Bridge is managed by Oxford City Council on behalf of a multi-agency partnership, including Thames Valley Police, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, South Central Ambulance Service, Oxfordshire County Council and Magdalen College. 12 people and three sweepers were deployed by ODS from 4am this morning to ensure the city centre is kept clean throughout the day as the festivities and normal activities carry on.

“Our ODS Streetscene Team do a great job getting the roads clear to reopen as quickly as possible after this event. The team starts at 4am clearing the city centre in readiness for the event, and then clears up afterwards so that the High St can reopen. It’s a busy day with lots of activity around the city centre, but it’s a great atmosphere and a special event to be part of.”

Ian Thompson, City Centre and Streetscene Operations Manager at ODS