Everything You Need to Know About Knutsford Royal May Day 2025

It’s nearly that time again when the charming town of Knutsford pulls out all the stops for one of the country’s most celebrated May Day festivals. Steeped in tradition since 1864 and officially crowned “Royal” in 1887 by King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, Knutsford Royal May Day is a proper slice of British pageantry.

Here’s everything you need to know so you don’t miss a moment.

When and Where?

Get Saturday 3rd May firmly in your diary. The festivities officially kick off at 1:30pm, with the procession itself starting promptly at 2pm.

As tradition demands, the children will gather at Church Hill before winding their way through the town’s historic streets. The grand finale? The procession arrives at The Heath, where the newly crowned May Queen will take centre stage, and the May Day Children perform their dances — including the much-loved Maypole Dance.

The best part? It’s completely free to attend, although donations are very much appreciated to help keep this tradition alive for future generations.

How to Get Your Hands on a Programme

If you want the full lowdown on Saturday’s events (and a deep dive into the colourful history of Knutsford Royal May Day), grab yourself a Programme for just £2. They’re available from Booths, The Heritage Centre, and the King Street Sweet Shop — plus the Scouts will be selling them door-to-door in the run-up to the big day and on the streets during the procession.

Where to Park

A word to the wise: don’t even think about trying to park on the large Heath — it’s bustling with tractors, horses, floats, and hundreds of excited children. Instead, parking is available on the Small Heath, safely organised by the brilliant team at Knutsford District Scouts. It’s just £5 for the day, and you’ll be helping a great local cause while you’re at it.

What’s New (and What’s Returning!)

As if the procession and crowning weren’t enough, Knutsford’s pulling out all the stops with entertainment right across the May Day weekend.

• From 1st to 5th May, the BIGGEST AND BEST funfair in the North West takes over The Heath.
• Expect heart-racing rides, classic stalls, and more candyfloss than you can shake a stick at.
• Plus, live music, food and drink stalls, and all the buzz you’d expect from a top-class town celebration.

Traditions You Can’t Miss

One of Knutsford’s proudest (and quirkiest) traditions is the sanding of the streets. Keep an eye out for bright, beautiful patterns and mottoes carefully crafted from coloured sand, decorating the pavements throughout the town. It’s a nod to Knutsford’s ancient history and a sight that never fails to get the cameras snapping.

And of course, the real jewel in the May Day crown — the crowning of the May Queen — remains at the heart of the day’s events, alongside the children’s traditional dances and the iconic Maypole performance.

Fireworks to Light Up the Weekend

It wouldn’t be a proper British celebration without a sky full of fireworks! The Grand Fireworks Display takes place on the evening following May Day, on Sunday 4th May.

The team from John Collins Funfairs will once again be lighting up the skies over Knutsford Heath, bringing the festivities to a sparkling, roaring close. Trust us — it’s worth staying for!

Put On Your Own Epic Fireworks Display

If you love a good firework display (and honestly, who doesn’t?), why not bring a bit of that May Day magic to your own garden party this summer?

At Epic Fireworks, we’re your go-to for everything you need to put on an awesome fireworks display. Whether it’s for Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve, Diwali, weddings or any special occasion, we’ve got you covered with an extensive range of fireworks, from sparklers and fountains to show-stopping barrages and rockets.

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