The City of Port Coquitlam is inviting children and youth to take part in the vibrant tradition of May Days by joining the Royal Party or participating in school maypole dances.
Children in Grades 2 through 5 can apply to be part of this year’s Royal Party, selected through a random draw. Flower Girls and Junior Lancers are chosen from Grades 2 and 3, while Princesses and Lancers are selected from Grades 4 and 5.
Online applications are being accepted to be part of this exciting traditional May Days Royal Party at portcoquitlam.ca/royalparty until January 11, 2026.
Royal party members will participate in:
- Royal Party Maypole dance practices – Mondays and Wednesdays beginning March 2 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm the Port Coquitlam Community Centre (No rehearsals during spring break).
- Royal Party Selection Luncheon – April 12 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm
- May Day Opening Ceremony Rehearsal – May 3 from 9:30 to 12:30 pm
- May Day Opening Ceremonies – May 3 from 3:00 to 4:30 pm
- May Day Parade with the City float – May 9 from10:30 am to 1:00 pm
School Maypole Dances
Elementary schools in Port Coquitlam will be performing the Maypole dances during the May Days opening ceremony on Sunday May 3, 2026. Students in grades 3 to 5 who live in Port Coquitlam are encouraged to join their school’s maypole team. Maypole practices will be coordintated by the schools. For more information, please contact the school directly.
For more information or for assistance with applications, contact [email protected] or apply online at portcoquitlam.ca/royalparty. The application deadline for Royal Party is January 11, 2026.
About May Days
The tradition of May Day royalty in Port Coquitlam began in 1923 with the crowning of the first May Queen. Over the years, May Days has grown into a week-long festival celebrating spring with the Rotary May Day Parade, outdoor activities, and a variety of artistic performances and displays.
This year’s May Days festival will take place from May 3 to 9, 2026, with additional event details to be announced closer to the date.
