Hope Community is thrilled to announce the return of a cherished Fairhope tradition that harks back to days gone by. Our May Day Celebration invites residents of all ages to participate in a community event that honors our shared history while building bridges for the future.
A Historic Homecoming
The celebration takes center stage at the Anna T. Jeanes School property on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This location holds deep significance as the site of the first African American school in Fairhope, where generations of community members previously gathered for May Day festivities that embodied unity, cultural pride, and youth engagement.
“The maypole represents many individual threads weaving together to create one strong, unified story,” the organizers explain. This metaphor perfectly captures the spirit of Hope Community’s mission to bring neighbors of all generations and backgrounds together.
What to Expect
Maypole Dance: Both beginners and experienced dancers can participate in the celebrated ribbon-wrapping ceremony
Live Entertainment: The Pathway to Peace Choir performs from 11:00-11:45 AM, followed by a DJ spinning everything from classic tunes to dance hits
Family Fun: Field games, face painting, a cake walk, and a clown will keep children entertained
Treats: Popcorn, cotton candy, and free hamburgers and hot dogs (as long as they last)
Get Involved Before the Big Day
Can’t wait until May 2nd? Join the maypole dance rehearsals to learn the steps:
Saturday, April 18th: 10:00 AM
Saturday, April 25th: 3:00 PM
Both sessions take place at the Anna T. Jeanes School property (6925 Twin Beech Rd, Fairhope, AL).
Support the CelebrationHope Community is seeking volunteers to help make this event a big success. Volunteer shifts run from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM on May 2nd in one to two hour increments. Sign-up to volunteer at this link.
Community members can also pre-order commemorative May Day 2026 T-shirts through through this link.
For more information: Call Vickie: 251-239-5727 or email info@hopecommunityal.org
Practical Details
Main Event: Saturday, May 2nd, 10 AM – 2 PM (Rain date: May 9th)
Location: Anna T. Jeanes School property, 6925 Twin Beech Rd, Fairhope, AL
Bring: Picnic baskets and lawn chairs (free food available on a limited basis)
Rehearsals: April 18th at 10 AM and April 25th at 3 PM
Why This Matters
This revival isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about reconnecting Fairhope with its rich cultural heritage while also providing the chance to create wonderful, new memories.. The Anna T. Jeanes School stands as a testament to the community’s resilience and commitment to education and unity. Hope Community is honoring the elders who kept these traditions alive by educating younger generations about their impact on the community.
Whether you’re a longtime Fairhope resident or new to the area, this celebration offers a perfect opportunity to experience what makes this community special: the ability to come together, celebrate our differences, and weave our individual stories into something beautiful.
Mark your calendars, gather your family, and join us in bringing Fairhope’s May Day tradition back to life!
About Hope Community: Hope Community is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the African American history of Baldwin County and enriching the lives of local residents through education, historical preservation, and programs that promote self-sufficiency and community engagement.
Contact: Andolyn Fitzgerald (251) 680-8525 or Taylor D’Amico (251) 802-9889 at info@hopecommunityal.org
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