In the spirit of renewal and connection, Hope Community invites residents to a joyful May Day Celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, at the historic Anna T. Jeanes School property in Fairhope at the corner of South Section Street and Twin Beech Road. The free gathering is more than a spring festival—it is a homecoming that reconnects the community with a place deeply rooted in local history, especially for those who attended school there.
For generations, the Anna T. Jeanes School property (ATJ) stood at the heart of education, celebration and community life in Fairhope South. May Day festivities were once a cherished tradition on these grounds, bringing families together each spring. Hope Community is revitalizing this tradition while restoring the historic property so ATJ can once again serve as a vibrant gathering place for neighbors of all ages.
By preserving the African American history tied to the site, Hope Community is also cultivating a sustainable future for all of Fairhope. Plans for the property include a teaching farm; community gardens; a teaching kitchen; nature trails; and spaces dedicated to history, arts, culture and education—initiatives designed to strengthen relationships and build a healthy, connected community through food, healing and shared learning.
The May Day Celebration offers a glimpse of that vision. Families can enjoy a spring afternoon filled with traditional maypole dancing, cake walks, music and old-fashioned outdoor games. Guests will also be treated to free hamburgers, hot dogs, popcorn and cotton candy. They can also bring their own picnic to enjoy under the beautiful oaks.
By attending, visitors become part of a living story that honors the rich heritage of Fairhope South while planting seeds for generations to come. Commemorative May Day 2026 T-shirts are available for preorder online.
Hope Community May Day Celebration
Bring neighbors, friends and family to celebrate the roots and plant the seeds for the future of this cherished community gathering.
Location: 6925 Twin Beech Rd., Fairhope. For more information, call 251-239-5727, email Info@HopeCommunityAL.org or visit HopeCommunityAL.org. To order T-shirts, visit HopeCommunityAL.org/event/may-day-celebration.
