What is a spring without a little dazzle?
Across Maryland, the arrival of May brings one of the most charming traditions of the season: May Day. From the bustling streets of Annapolis to the welcoming storefronts of Easton and the historic town of Chestertown, each destination offers its own unique take on this beloved spring ritual.
May Day in Annapolis - May 1
In Annapolis, May Day is nothing short of a spectacle. What began in 1956 as a simple effort by the Garden Club of Old Annapolis-Town to showcase community pride has blossomed into a vibrant, friendly competition. Each year, residents and local businesses fill baskets with fresh blooms in every imaginable color, transforming downtown into a living gallery of floral design. Judges award highly coveted ribbons, and the creativity on display never fails to impress.
This year, our own display brings a thoughtful twist to tradition. Designed by owner Jenn Baker, our Annapolis basket celebrates sustainability and the beauty of the kitchen garden. Tucked among the flowers, you might just spot a few unexpected guests; vegetables peeking through the petals, reminding us that beauty and practicality can grow side by side.
Stores, residents, and businesses all participate. You’ll find their flower baskets and displays around the downtown beginning at 10am on May 1. The date never changes. Take a day off and join us around town!
Jenn’s pro tip - if you want to avoid the crowd, come downtown early. You’ll find a lot of business owners putting out their displays around 9am. Watching the setup is fun and you can chat with the maker about their creations.
In Easton - May 1 & 2
Across the Bay Bridge in Easton, the celebration takes on a quieter, more relaxed charm. While there’s no formal competition, the spirit of May Day is just as strong. Local businesses welcome visitors with colorful floral arrangements that brighten doorways and invite you to linger a little longer.
Created by Sam, our Easton store manager, our Easton display embraces everything we love about spring. Fluttering butterflies, cheerful birds, and a joyful explosion of color that captures the season’s sense of renewal.
And then there’s Chestertown…
Meanwhile, Chestertown offers a May Day tradition that is… a bit more unconventional. At nearby Washington College, students mark May 1st with a long-standing (and eyebrow-raising) custom: a spirited, clothing-optional run across the campus green.
Dating back to 1967, the tradition reportedly began after a reading of Gerard Manley Hopkins’ poem “Spring” took an unexpected turn. What started as a spontaneous moment has since become a rite of passage for students.
We’ll simply say this: while Chestertown’s version of May Day certainly keeps things lively, we’re firmly in favor of celebrating with flowers, not fewer layers.
Wherever you find yourself this May Day, we hope you take a moment to enjoy the creativity, color, and community that make this tradition so special. And if you’re nearby, stop in and see how we’re celebrating spring, you might just leave inspired to create a little dazzle of your own.
