Four years ago my friend and comadre Claudia asked me what were my plans for May Day, a little confused I asked what she meant. She was quite shocked I had no idea what she was talking about as she replied: "It's my favorite day of the year in Minneapolis!". In May of 2012 I discovered what she referred to and year after year I make sure I won't be out traveling, it's a day that I have to be in Minneapolis. I wouldn't miss it for anything!
Every year since 1974 In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre has organized the MayDay Parade and Festival. It takes place on the first Sunday of May from noon til dusk, and it celebrates the coming of spring while also making us aware of various current social issues.
This amazing parade which gather around 50,000 people takes place in South Minneapolis on Bloomington Avenue. The streets are filled with hundreds of beautiful giant puppets, dancers and performers shouting "Happy MayDay!" The colors are vibrant, the energy high and happiness is felt all around.
After the parade everybody gathers at Powderhorn Park to the Tree of Life Ceremony. While drums are playing, boats representing the Sun Flotilla paddle through Powderhorn Lake to get to the Tree of Life in order to reawaken it, the warmth seasons have arrived.
MayDay is when I see the community come together, get vibrant and ready to take over the spring and summer. This celebration is to me the perfect representation of Minnesota Nice: it's positive, beautiful, socially and environmentally conscientious, multi-generational and multicultural.
I've enjoyed this beautiful celebration with Claudia since 2012 and hope to continue doing it so as our friendship keeps on growing.
Gracias Clauu por enseñarme las cosas bonitas de la vida ❤️
Clauu super excited about MayDay at Powdernhorn Park