Gawthorpe Maypole Procession 2026: Historic annual event to take place next month as parade entries open

The May Day celebrations in Gawthorpe always takes place on the first Saturday in May, meaning the annual event will this year return on May 2.

A colourful mile-long procession will parade through the streets of Gawthorpe and Ossett, honouring a community tradition that has taken place for over 150 years.

The procession will begin at Highfield School and is approximately four and a half miles with a twenty minute break at Ossett Community centre half way round.

It will consist of decorated floats, entered by local schools, organisations and companies, adults and children in a variety of fancy dress costumes, marching bands, majorettes, Youth Groups and horses.

Vintage and Classic cars are also encouraged to enter and join.

The procession will then end at the Maypole Green, where the newly-appointed May Queen and her Maids will gather.

Entries of floats and children’s and adult fancy dress can be made either before the day by completing the entry form in advance or by visiting the Maypole Hut – 50 yards down from the Shoulder of Mutton Pub in Gawthorpe on the morning of the procession.

As well as the annual procession, families will also be able to visit Robinson’s funfair in the Maypole Field, on Swithenbank Avenue, which will have fairground rides and stalls.

To find out more, or to register for the procession, visit: https://gawthorpemaypole.org/classes-entry-fees-prizes/