Jack in the Green Bristol

Winterbourne Willows have been supplying Jack in the Green Bristol with our own willow for many years.

The willow is used to make the pyramid shaped structure which is then decorated with leaves, flowers and ribbons and covers ‘Jack’ from head to foot hence ‘Jack in the Green’.

The custom may have originated out of a tradition involving milkmaids and chimney sweeps celebrating May Day for whom the occasion was a special holiday.

The event held every year in Bristol on or around May Day consists of a lively and colourful procession through the city’s streets accompanied by musicians and dancers to herald the arrival of summer. The big finale is the slaying of Jack to release the spirit of summer.