There are many fixtures on what has become a crowded community events calendar here in Delta, but there’s one celebration that stands out from all the rest when it comes to staying power.
Established all the way back in 1896, Ladner Pioneer May Days, which returns to Memorial Park this weekend, is in a class by itself when it comes to longevity, almost as old as Delta itself. To put that in some perspective, May Days had already been held for more than 60 years by the time the George Massey Tunnel opened and ushered in modern day Delta.
It’s not easy to keep any annual celebration going, whether that’s due to insufficient human resources (read volunteers), waning interest from the public or time simply passing it by. Those afflictions and more have claimed many an event over the years in these parts, including everything from the World Championship Wheelbarrow Race and Miss Delta pageant to the annual Christmas tree bonfire at Deas Island Regional Park and, more recently, the Ladner Christmas parade and Grand Prix of Art.
While those and others have disappeared from the landscape, May Days has endured, blending traditions like the May Queen and May Pole dance that date back to the beginning with activities of the 21st century that keep it fresh and exciting.
What I love most about May Days, and why I think it has been a mainstay on the local calendar for more than a century (beyond the hard work of countless volunteers over the years), is because it has multi-generational appeal. I cringe when I hear the phrase, “There’s something for everyone,” primarily because it’s overused and often oversold, but in the case of May Days, it’s absolutely true.
Kids, parents, grandparents… every age enjoys the fair. Whether you’re a music lover, a thrill seeker, a crafter, a foodie, a ball fan or just love to sit back and watch a parade go by, May Days has you covered.
Back when my son was little I can remember having to rush home on the Friday of May Days weekend because he couldn’t wait another minute to get to the fairground. He’s 20 now so the carnival doesn’t hold the same appeal, but I can pretty much guarantee that later this week I’m going to be asked, “Hey, when are we going to May Days?”
