Photographer Sara Hannant presents an illustrated talk about some of the folk traditions which mark seasonal cycles throughout England. A chance encounter in 2006 with the Deptford Jack in the Green, welcoming in the summer, prompted her to discover other seasonal rites in rural and urban areas. From the Spring ritual dances in Bacup to the lighting of mid-winter fires in Sussex, some of these customs claim ancient origins, whilst others are recent revivals or re-inventions.

Her research culminated in her book and Horniman Museum touring exhibition Mummers, Maypoles, and Milkmaids: A Journey Through the English Ritual Year. From costumed processions to symbolic dramatisations, dances and fire ceremonies, Hannant found that figures from folklore, myth and tradition mingle.

Due to illness, this event will no longer take place.