This film is part of Free

Llandudno May Day (1907)

May Day festivities in the North Wales town.

Non-Fiction 1907 5 mins Silent

Overview

Llandudno is hustle, bustle and excitement for the annual May Day festivities, an event described in the local press at the time as "a great trade procession". For centuries British towns and villages have come together on May Day to celebrate springtime fertility. Recreational time had increased for the Edwardians, meaning more could relax, have fun and soak up the atmosphere at events like this.

No doubt May Queen Doris Ward, seen seated and smiling in a flower-covered carriage, had many admirers, but most eyes would have been fixed on the still novel sight of a film camera. Local traders certainly recognised the potential of the 'animated pictures' and harnessed them to promote their wares. Exhibitor Mr J Ritson is seen in one shot, carrying a billboard advertising 'Parisian Animated Pictures'.