Storytime in the Woods: Grandpa Ivy's May Day Surprise (Free Seasonal Story for Children)
Celebrate May Day with a cozy, springtime tale that your child will love. "Grandpa Ivy’s May Day Surprise" is a gentle story designed for children ages 3–7 and is part of our Storytime in the Woods series. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the season, build a sense of rhythm, and inspire wonder.
Watch the Story
Listen on the Podcast
Listen to this story on the Purple Day podcast — perfect for quiet time or car rides. Listen to Purple Day Episode 34, which includes a spring circle time and the story of Grandpa Ivy's May Day Surprise.
About this Story
Grandpa Ivy's May Day Surprise, by Becca Lane
This Waldorf-inspired tale features Grandpa Ivy preparing a special surprise to celebrate May Day. It’s a gentle spring story filled with friendship, flowers, and the joy of seasonal traditions.
Every year on the first day of May, Grandpa Ivy wakes up early and delivers baskets of flowers–May Baskets–to his neighbors and friends in Riverbend. This is how he continues the May Day celebration he loved as a child. For years, no one knew who was leaving the beautiful baskets, and Grandpa Ivy’s involvement remained a mystery. However, after many years, the people in Riverbend figured out it was Grandpa Ivy. They wanted to do something special to thank him. They worked together and decided to deliver baskets to him that year and then have a real May Day celebration with a May Pole, dancing, and delicious food.
Love this Story? Try These Next:
- Wilson Wild Wind: A playful tale about a blustery spring day.
- Little Flea & Little Louse | A preschool version of the classic Grimms’ Tale
- Green Grass Grew All Around | A spring circle time song for preschool
Free Seasonal Sampler
Want more stories, songs, and crafts like this? Download our free Seasonal Sampler, which includes songs, stories, and crafts for each season.
Are you interested in learning more nature-based songs, stories, and craft projects?
Check out our free Storytime Seasonal Sampler, which includes a full week of Storytime videos for each season, giving you new songs and stories to enjoy all year.
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