All around Germany, it’s that time of year when colorful advertisements bearing the words “Tanz in den Mai” appear on city fences, utility poles and Facebook feeds. Dance into May? What can that be all about?

First off, it’s useful to know that May 1, also known as May Day or Tag der Arbeit, is a public holiday throughout the land. With no need to rise and shine early the next day, it’s traditional to spend the last evening of April out late with one’s friends, perhaps dancing as a band plays or simply socializing. Outdoor venues such as the local sports ground, town square or beer garden are likely spots for these gatherings. Nightclubs and discos are in on the act as well; plenty will be holding parties on spring’s night of nights.

Rites surrounding May Day can be traced back to ancient times. Before the warm months of the year could be ushered in, evil spirits had to be driven away. The night between April 30 and May 1 is still commonly referred to as Witches Night or Walpurgis Night. The epicenter of witchy activity was believed to be Brocken, also known as Blocksberg, the highest peak in the Harz mountain range. Legend held that witches from near and far would gather there on the night to consort with the devil. Lighting bonfires and dancing wildly were believed to be effective means of keeping witches at bay.

Fast forward into the present, those looking to ward off witches simply celebrate the coming of spring local-style on April 30 have quite a few options. Below is a selection of outings that sound promising:

Kaiserslautern’s Lautrer Wirtshaus: This restaurant and beer garden is just one of several city establishments hosting an event. This party starts at 8 p.m. and features the live music of Alpentaler, a three-piece local band that plays Oktoberfest-style music. Entry costs 5 euros.

Maihochetse, Schwäbisch Hall: From 7 p.m., residents and visitors alike are invited to dance and celebrate on its Marktplatz. The band “3 Pounds” plays hits of the 1970s and 1980s. Ample food and drink are available on site. Entry is free.

Mainzer Weintage/ Mainz Wine Days: The wine fest taking place through the weekend along the Rhine riverbanks is bound to see plenty of action on the night. Live music plays until 10 p.m.

Marstallhof, Heidelberg: From 7 p.m., three bands play at this free-entry, open-air party. The first band plays Latin and Caribbean-inspired music; the second promises a mix of pop, soul, funk and rock; third up is “Los Electrodoméstikos,” billed as one of Heidelberg’s cult bands. Food is available on-site, including brats on the grill and Belgian waffles. Cocktails feature heavily on the drinks menu.

Stuttgarter Frühlingsfest/ Stuttgart Spring Fest: The spring funfair at the Wasen is going strong, and the gates remain open until midnight. Grandls Hofbrauezelt, one of the beer tents, is advertising a Tanz in den Mai celebration on the night. Though seats appear fully booked, try your chances there anyway or elsewhere.

What “Dance into May” happenings have you seen advertised in your corner of Germany?