The Motherlode April 2025

For Huston, May Day took on a deeper significance in 2020 when, amidst the uncertainty of the pandemic, she used her stimulus check to create stunning floral installations at local restaurants. “I wanted to do something big and beautiful to encourage Annapolitans to stop by local restaurants for to-go drinks and carry out,” she recalled. “Something joyful for a time when we were all terrified.” One of her largest displays, a whiskey barrel overflowing with 400 stems, became an impromptu photo spot that year. Huston watched from her car sobbing as people lined up to take photos with the barrel and get drinks. This year marks the sixth anniversary of her signature “Barrel of Blooms,” a love letter to Annapolis and its resilience. The tradition continues long after the baskets have been displayed, with an exclusive May Day Tea held to honor the blue ribbon winners. Hosted in the garden of a Garden Club member, the event features recipes passed down through generations and a traditional maypole, keeping history alive. How to Best Enjoy May Day • Start early. The displays are ready by 10:00 am, and the morning light is ideal for taking in the vibrant colors before the day gets busier. • Take a walking tour. Stroll through the Historic District to see the most impressive arrangements on Maryland Avenue, Prince George Street, and Main Street. • Bring your camera. The floral displays make for stunning photos, and many businesses design their arrangements with Instagram-worthy aesthetics in mind. • Shop local. While you’re downtown, stop into the boutiques and galleries that line the streets. • Enjoy a leisurely lunch. Downtown Annapolis is home to fantastic restaurants with outdoor seating, perfect for soaking in the beauty of the day while enjoying a meal. Whether through simple floral baskets or elaborate, large-scale displays, May Day in Annapolis remains a testament to creativity, community, and the enduring beauty of tradition.

Photo courtesy of Melissa Huston

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