The May Festival, also known as Walpurgis Night or May 1st, is a traditional spring festival celebrated in many European countries, particularly in Germany. The tradition of the May Festival has its roots in pre-Christian Germanic and Celtic spring rituals, which celebrate the beginning of the warm season and the end of winter.

Over time, various customs and traditions have developed around the May Festival:

1. Maypole: In many places, a decorated maypole is erected, often adorned with colorful ribbons, flowers, and symbols. The maypole represents fertility and growth and is a central element of many May Festivals.
2. Dance into May: The traditional dance into May is another important activity during the May Festival. People gather to dance together into May, often around the maypole, celebrating the beginning of the warm season.
3. Walpurgis Night: In some regions, especially in Northern and Central Europe, the night of April 30th to May 1st is known as Walpurgis Night. Walpurgis Night has its origins in pre-Christian traditions that celebrated the arrival of spring during this night. Today, Walpurgis Night is often celebrated with fires, fireworks, and costumes.
4. May Day: In many countries, May 1st is a public holiday known as Labor Day or International Workers’ Day. Although this holiday has no direct connection to the original May Festival traditions, it is often associated with demonstrations and celebrations related to work and social justice.

The May Festival is an opportunity to welcome spring and strengthen the community. Although some of the old customs and traditions have changed or been forgotten over time, the May Festival remains an important part of the cultural heritage in many parts of Europe.