The May Pole
Though the origin of the practice of wrapping a tall pole in ribbon is difficult to pin to a specific time and place, historians agree that the May pole began as a part of the May Day festivals in European countries on May 1.
The May pole dance is a ceremonial folk dance performed around a tall pole hung with ribbons that are woven into complex patterns by the dancers. Often times this ritual is performed at Swedish midsummer festivals. As ribbons circle the pole, patterns such as this are created by the dancers.
Pat Locke, Maestro Muse
