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Jack in the Green festival, High Street

This traditional Morris-dancing festival in Hastings attracts groups from all over the country. Taking place over the May Bank Holiday weekend, it culminates in a procession and a ceremony called Slaying of the Jack on the last day. The origins of the festival are linked to that of the May Pole. In the 16th and 17th centuries people in England would make garlands of flowers and leaves for the May Day celebrations. The tradition developed until people bedecked themselves in foliage. Chimney boys often covered themselves in grass and were nicknamed "Jack in the Green". The festival declined and disappeared during the 19th century. This festival has been held in Hastings since, its revival in 1983. Link

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