Spring is in the air but May Morning celebrations have once again been ‘cancelled’ due to coronavirus restrictions.
There will be no repeat of 2019 when thousands of people gathered beneath Magdalen Tower to hear the choir sing.
May 1, 2021 is a Saturday so there could have been a bumper crowd if the restrictions were not in place preventing crowds from gathering.
Read again: May Morning 2019 in pictures
Non-essential shops reopened on April 12 and pubs and restaurants can serve people outside but outdoor gatherings of more than six people, or two households, remain illegal.
There will be no event at Magdalen Tower this year, and residents and students are being asked to enjoy the celebrations at home.
Instead, people are being encouraged to get involved by using #MayMorning.
An online event will start at 6am with the Choir of Magdalen College, which will air on its Facebook page with an introduction by the President of the college.
Thames Valley Police will continue its regular patrols of the city centre and parks to ensure the rules are being upheld.
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Pubs, cafes and restaurants could be allowed to reopen indoors from May 17.
Councillor Mary Clarkson, cabinet member for culture and the city centre, said earlier: “While we’re still under restrictions due to the risks of Covid the traditional celebrations at Magdalen Tower won’t take place but we can all watch online in better comfort than normal.
"May Morning is an Oxford tradition that has survived wars and disease before, and the online event last year gave a new perspective – and better audio – to the age old tradition.
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"Please remember the rules on group gatherings and enjoy a safe and happy May Morning."
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