The tradition dates back to 1924, when neighbors in one of Macon’s historic Black communities came together for fellowship, entertainment and community pride.
MACON, Ga. — Families gathered Saturday at Mattie Hubbard Park as Pleasant Hill residents revived the neighborhood’s historic May Day Celebration for the first time in nearly 10 years.
The tradition dates back to 1924, when neighbors in one of Macon’s historic Black communities came together for fellowship, entertainment and community pride.
Organizers Monica Miller and JaCory Marcus helped bring the celebration back after each receiving $600 Reimagining Civic Commons mini grants and combining the funds to host the event.
Children played on the playground while families shared free food, listened to music and participated in activities, including yoga, throughout the afternoon.
Residents said the return of the celebration represents more than just a community gathering. Many say the construction of the interstate through Pleasant Hill decades ago physically divided parts of the neighborhood, making it harder for neighbors and families to stay connected.
Longtime resident Casandra Barron said she remembers how the interstate changed the community she grew up in.
“The highway had divided Pleasant Hill in some ways,” Barron said. “I stayed on and grew up on Fourth Avenue, and the highway right there, and so we used to have to cross the bridge to go to the other side of Pleasant Hill.”
Barron said events like May Day are important for preserving family traditions and neighborhood history for younger generations.
“Keeping the families alive, so it’s good that we get the young people on board, keep the generation going, keep the history going in Pleasant Hill,” Barron said.
Some younger residents also said safety concerns and neighborhood divisions make it difficult to regularly gather with friends and family, adding to the importance of community events.
Organizers said they hope reviving traditions like the May Day celebration will continue bringing neighbors together while encouraging future investment in Pleasant Hill.
Saturday’s event featured music, dancing, food and activities aimed at reconnecting generations of residents in a neighborhood many say has long been defined by resilience and community pride.
