Chingford May Day Fayre

Chingford May Day Fayre invited everyone from Waltham Forest and beyond to gather on Chingford Plain, to celebrate community, togetherness, and the International Day of the Worker.

Ride on

On Saturday 4 May, people were invited to pack a picnic and head to Chingford Plain by bicycle, on foot, or any means necessary, to celebrate May Day together.

Along the way, entertainment was provided by Bicycle Ballet. Dancers on two wheels performed choreographed pieces that acknowledged the impact of the bicycle on women’s rights.

Celebrating women and cycling

Part of Chingford May Day Fayre celebrated the humble bicycle and the impact it had on women's rights. The rise of the bicycle allowed women to have more freedom at little cost, and not have to rely on men.

One of the modern inventors of the bicycle, John Kemp Starley, also lived and worked in Waltham Forest.

Plain and simple

On Chingford Plain, Waltham Forest London Borough of Culture hosted grassroots and independent performers and musicians, stalls and workshops, a community feast, and family entertainments. Across the plain, families and groups could join together and take part in activities and performances.

Come together

Chingford May Day Fayre provided an opportunity for everyone to come together, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, in celebration of the International Day of the Worker. We gathered on Chingford Plain to reconnect with nature and the forest.

As the sun set on Chingford May Day Fayre, a community bonfire and firework display took us into the night.