Special to the Telegraph
Concerned Citizens of Bradford County held its May Day Celebration on Saturday, May 3.
The event opened on a reverent note with a prayer, followed by the singing of “God Bless America.”
Children played in the Kids’ Corner bounce house, seniors gathered for games and conversation in their own dedicated space, and colorful ribbons wrapped their way around the maypole during the tradition of plaiting it.
A Festival with Purpose
“This event is to help fund our summer day care program,” said Alica McMillian, President of Concerned Citizens of Bradford County. “Sponsorships and funds have been coming in and helping our existing programs, and we would like it to continue so we can continue to help the community.”
Established in 1978, Concerned Citizens is a nonprofit organization built on the foundations of community service, character development, and educational support. Its mission is simple: to lend a helping hand in all positive aspects of life. From mentoring youth to modeling positive behavior, their work uplifts Bradford County.
McMillian added a thank you to the community for its ongoing generosity and support, noting how the organization depends on the spirit of giving and the shared desire to build something greater together.
A Celebration Rooted in History
While the local May Day celebration is a staple in Starke, the roots of May Day stretch back centuries. Initially, an ancient pagan festival marking the halfway point between the spring equinox and the summer solstice, May Day celebrated fertility, renewal, and the return of warmth and light. In medieval Europe, people would gather flowers, dance around the maypole, and crown a May Queen—rituals still echoed today in events like Saturday’s plaiting of the maypole.
But May Day has also evolved. In the late 19th century, it gained new meaning as International Workers’ Day, a date labor movements chose to commemorate the Haymarket affair in Chicago in 1886 and advocate for fair labor practices worldwide.
Faith, Fellowship, and Fun
This year’s event also partnered with a Community Health and Wellness Resource Fair, highlighting the importance of not just celebrating the season but embracing health and vitality in all forms. Local vendors and organizations provided information, screenings, and resources to help attendees take steps toward better health in mind, body, and spirit.
Trucks and local vendors lined the field, offering food, gifts, and community information. Music filled the air, culminating in a Gospel Fest.
A Celebration Worth Supporting
The funds raised from the event will go directly toward the Concerned Citizens’ Summer Day Care Program, which provides vital support for local families and enriching experiences for children in Bradford County. And for those who missed the event but still want to contribute, there are still opportunities to give.
For more information on donations or sponsorships, please call 904-966-1100 or email [email protected].
