This was the first time I ever tried going to the May Day Celebration. It was an interesting, unique group of people. It felt like I was back in time in the 60s. I enjoyed how free everyone was. I even saw a woman kiss her partner while breastfeeding her baby bare breasted. I saw the play and the Indian dancers. I’m so impressed the community has put this on so for so many years!
Nazgul W.
Place rating: 5 Minneapolis, MN
The MayDay parade is a fantastic exhibition of artistry, individuality, common purpose and free speech. Various groups come together to put on a walking performance including dance, music and artwork that tells a story, different from year to year. I have been a few times and it’s always a lot of fun to hang out on Bloomington Ave as the various sections roll by, enjoying the music of many different styles and the incredible display of color, costumes and parade vehicles. This year(2012), they had more dancers than I could ever remember. The MayDay parade brings an incredible feeling of camaraderie to the city and celebrates diversity and ways of thinking about things, including political causes, that is often pushed to the margins of society. The parade is not confrontational, but it does not shy away from controversial issues that face us today. I love the parade narrative itself but also the free speech section that follows, where people can come out and boldly represent their causes. The parade is an awesome sight and a wonderful way to spend the day. It’s a festive atmosphere filled with smells, sounds and sights that one won’t soon forget.
Emily O.
Place rating: 5 St Paul, MN
What a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon! Pack up the kids & the dog & head to Powderhorn Park for the May Day Parade & Festival. Typically held the first Sunday in May, weather permitting. You will spend the day people watching, eating your way through numerous food trucks, listening to live music, watching puppet shows, hula hoopers, slack liners, jugglers, shows, gazoo bands, belly dancers, canoeing & checking out local causes. It’s a great experience & not to be missed!
