Castleton Garland Day

Castleton Garland Day is held on May 29 in the village of Castleton in the Derbyshire Peak District. The Garland King, on horseback, and covered to the waist in a heavy, bell-shaped floral Garland, leads a procession through the village.

The date of the custom coincides with Oak Apple Day and it is said to commemorate the restoration of King Charles II in 1660. Presumably the Garland is meant to represent the oak tree in which he hid after the Battle of Worcester. Some folklorists suspect that it is actually a much older custom that transferred from May Day as many May celebrations did after having been banned by the Puritans. The Garland King certainly resembles a kind of Jack in the Green.

From 12 noon the Garland and Queen posy are made at Castleton Garage and you are invited to watch the progress. They are also on display during the afternoon.

• 4 - 4.30pm. The Maypole is erected in the Market Place.
• 5.30pm. The King and Consort ride the Village Bounds.
• 6.20pm The Garland King and Consort arrive at the Old Garage on Buxton Road where the Garland is placed over the Kings head and onto his shoulders
• 6.25pm. Castleton Silver Band and the mounted King and Consort arrive at the Peveril Centre.
• 6.30pm. The procession begins from the Peveril Centre and proceeds through the village, dancing at each pub in turn.
• 8 - 8.30pm. The Garland is hoisted up the Church Tower and there is Maypole Dancing in the Market Place.
• 8.45pm. The ceremony at the War Memorial.
• 8.45 - 9pm. The Band leads the dancing villagers out of the Market Place.

Please note that all times are approximate and  may vary depending on  crowds and conditions.