HISTORY OF THE COUNT OF MAY

A FESTIVAL TODAY

The Fest of the Count of May has been known since pre-Christian Celtic culture and was celebrated in the Middle Ages in Bohemia and southern Germany, where the King of May was elected, and in Italy, where it was held under the auspices of the election of the King of the Forest. It came to Latvia in the Middle Ages from Scandinavia, Germany, Gotland and England, where this holiday has long been celebrated as the Holiday of Spring and Fertility.

Historical Background

Originating from ancient European spring festivities, the tradition of electing a "Count of May" was prevalent in regions such as Germany, Scandinavia, Gotland, and England. These celebrations symbolized the arrival of spring and the promise of fertility. In the 15th century, Riga embraced this custom, with the earliest records indicating that the Count of May was elected in the presence of the city council, often in open areas outside the city walls. The elected Count, typically a member of the Great Guild, would hold the title for a year, leading processions and hosting feasts that brought together people from various social strata.

In 1477, a significant development occurred when an agreement was reached allowing a representative from the Great Guild to be appointed as the Count of May, with members of the Brotherhood of Blackheads serving as his entourage. This collaboration enhanced the festival's grandeur, making it a cornerstone of Riga's cultural calendar. Over the centuries, the festival experienced periods of both prominence and decline, with the 19th century seeing it celebrated primarily within family settings. The tradition waned during the Soviet era but was revitalized in the early 2000s.

Modern Revival

The contemporary iteration of the Count of May Festival began in 2000, spearheaded by the House of Blackheads in collaboration with AS "Rīgas Nami" and the Riga City Council. This revival focused on reconstructing medieval festivities, offering participants an immersive historical experience. Since 2012, the cultural organization "Alternative Reality" has taken the helm, infusing the festival with modern multicultural elements while preserving its historical essence. This approach celebrates Latvia's cultural evolution within the broader European context.

Held annually in Riga's picturesque Ziedoņdārzs Park, the Count of May Festival is a family-friendly event that unites different eras, cultures, and communities. Attendees can expect a rich tapestry of activities, including: