Hastings Jack in the Green 2026 runs from Friday 1 May to Monday 4 May, bringing four days of Morris dancing, drumming, giants, workshops, concerts, and the famous Bank Holiday Monday procession that ends with the symbolic ‘slaying of the Jack’ to release the spirit of summer.
🌿 A May Day Tradition Steeped in Folklore
Hastings Jack in the Green is one of Britain’s most distinctive May Day celebrations, drawing thousands to the Old Town each year. The 2026 festival spans the long weekend from 1–4 May, filling the streets, pubs, and seafront with colour, music, and ritual. Rooted in centuries-old customs, the event marks the arrival of summer through dance, greenery, and community celebration.
The festival is organised by the Hastings Traditional Jack in the Green charity, which preserves the folklore and ensures the event remains free and accessible to all. Public donations, grants, and merchandise sales help fund the festivities.
🥁 What to Expect Across the Weekend
The four-day programme blends traditional English folk culture with Hastings’ own vibrant character. Key elements include:
- Morris dancing across the Old Town, featuring troupes from across the UK.
- Drumming groups and musicians filling the streets with rhythm and energy.
- Giants and costumed characters, adding theatrical flair to the celebrations.
- Workshops, sessions, and concerts, offering something for all ages.
- Family-friendly events, from informal gatherings to lively outdoor performances.
The atmosphere builds steadily from Friday evening, with pubs and venues hosting live music and social events throughout the weekend.
🍃 The Grand Procession & Slaying of the Jack
The highlight of the festival takes place on Bank Holiday Monday, when the Jack—an elaborate leafy figure representing the spirit of nature—leads a spectacular procession through the Old Town. Dancers, drummers, giants, and costumed groups accompany the parade, creating a moving tapestry of colour and sound.
The procession climbs to the West Hill, where the crowd gathers for the dramatic finale: the slaying of the Jack. This symbolic act “releases the spirit of summer,” a moment greeted with cheers, music, and celebration.
🎪 Festival Setting & Local Character
Hastings’ steep lanes, historic pubs, and coastal backdrop give the festival a unique sense of place. Visitors can expect:
- A lively Old Town filled with performers and spectators
- Independent pubs and cafés offering food, drink, and live music
- A welcoming, community-driven atmosphere
- A blend of ancient tradition and modern creativity
The event is free to attend, though donations are encouraged to support the charity’s work and ensure the festival continues to thrive.
🌞 A Celebration of Community and Summer
Jack in the Green is more than a festival—it’s a shared ritual that brings Hastings together. Whether you’re drawn by the folklore, the music, or the sheer spectacle, the 2026 event promises four days of joy, tradition, and seaside energy.
⚓ Shipwreck Museum Open Every Day
The Shipwreck Museum in Rock-a-Nore road will be open every day during the Jack in the Green festival so drop in and see us while you’re here.