Thousands of people set to gather for May Morning celebrations in Oxford
The event dates to the 17th century and is a unique Oxford tradition.
Thousands of people will gather in Oxford to celebrate the coming of Spring for May Morning 2025.
The event dates back more than 500 years and is a unique Oxford tradition.
Choristers from Magdalen College School will sing traditional pieces including the Hymnus Eucharisticus from the top of Magdalen College’s Great Tower.
Written by a Fellow of Magdalen College, Hymnus Eucharisticus was composed in the 17th century and has been sung every year on May Morning ever since.
The bells of the Great Tower, rung by the Oxford Society of Change Ringers, then ring out over the city for approximately 20 minutes.
Celebrations will then continue across the day with lots of dance, music, food and entertainment available, including Morris dancing and folk singing.
Paula Redway, an organiser of the event said: “May Morning is a brilliant and uniquely Oxford experience. The event really brings people of all ages and backgrounds in the city together, with students, families and visitors alike all up early to take part in this much-loved tradition to celebrate the arrival of spring together.
To keep it enjoyable for everyone, we are asking people to follow the instructions from stewards, keep to the pedestrian channels, and use the buggy and wheelchair areas if needed. If you are travelling through the city please be aware of the road closure and alternative routes for both cars and bicycles.”
Safety and accessibility
A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: “A policing operation is in place and our officers will be on hand to engage with and reassure those attending.
“We’re working closely with our partners to help ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for this year’s May Morning celebrations, and we look forward to supporting both Oxford residents and visitors in enjoying this special tradition.”
Oxford City Council say, a crowd management system will provide one-way channels on Magdalen Bridge to enable the crowd to flow safely during and immediately after the event.
People will not be allowed to stop in the channels. Stewards and signs will direct people to areas where they can stop and view the event. Those wishing to move through the event space will need to keep left.
Designated viewing areas will be available in the Magdalen College School car park and on Rose Lane, for wheelchair users, families with young children, and those with buggies.
A road closure will be in place from The Plain to the top of the High Street from 02:00 till around 09:00 on Thursday 1 May.