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In Britain during the Middle Ages, the fairest maiden in the village was chosen as the May Queen. Sometimes a May King would also be chosen. Together the May Queen and May King would lead the youth of the village in dance and rule over festivities marking the spring. During the Elizabethan times, the May Queen and King were sometimes called Robin Hood and Maid Marian.

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May Queens were a big part of Port Moody's May Day celebrations. The May Queens were schoolchildren around the age of twelve years old and in earlier years were voted in by their peers. Typically, the more popular girl won the title of May Queen. In 1946 the school districts of Port Moody and Ioco amalgamated, this was the last year that May Queens and the Royal Party were elected by ballot. Starting in 1947 names for the positions were drawn at random.

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May Queen and Royal Party
1971
Port Moody

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The position of May Queen did not hold many responsibilities; her most important duty was to have fun. The Port Moody May Queen would visit the May Day celebrations of the surrounding communities to represent the city of Port Moody.
Here is a picture of the Port Moody May Queen visiting the Port Coquitlam parade.

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Port Moody May Queen in Port Coquitlam parade
1967
Port Coquitlam

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Flower girls
1967
Port Moody

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The Royal Party consisted of two attendants, a record bearer, and an average of six flower girls. In 1952 and 1953, the party expanded to include pageboys. Starting in 1952, Miss Canada would join in the celebration.