For immediate release.

New Westminster, BC, May 19, 2026. 

Lorraine Brett, President of the New Westminster May Day Community Association (the “Association” or the “May Day Association”) is pleased to announce the 2026 Royal Suite, determined by random draw. The draw was open to New Westminster students. The Association received entries from across New Westminster. The Royal City’s 156th May Day Festival event will take place on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 1:30PM sharp in Queens Park Stadium (doors open at 1PM). 

New Westminster’s May Day, dating back to 1870, is the longest continuously observed May Day in the British Commonwealth and possibly the world. The event, typically held in Queens Park on a day following Victoria Day, involves the Crowning of a May Queen, Maypole dancing, musical and dance performances, speeches, and other activities such as sports. Detailed information about the history of May Day in New Westminster is available via the NWMDA’s website www.nwmayday.com

The Association’s mission is to build community through shared experience, a sense of place, and meaningful connections to the unique cultural heritage of New Westminster. 

The Association’s vision is for a May Day Festival that is vibrant, fun and an exciting celebration for all ages.

New Westminster’s 156th May Queen is Madeleine Whitehead. The Royal Knight Consort for 2026 is Roman Kostiuchenko. 

The 2026 New Westminster Royal Suite comprises 12 members as follows: 

May Queen – Madeleine Whitehead
Royal Knight Consort – Roman Kostiuchenko
1st Maid of Honour – Ananya Saxena
2nd Maid of Honour – Aretha Sudhindran
Medal Bearer – Natalie Neufeld
Register Bearer – Kyla Harvey

1st Flower Girl – Sophie Pedersen
2nd Flower Girl – Leah Lim
3rd Flower Girl – Bethany Lucas
4th Flower Girl – Sieun An
5th Flower Girl – Jazlyn Lu
6th Flower Girl – Poppy Duncan