Morris dance is any of various old English country dances, usu. performed outdoors in summer by a group of men who wear special white clothes, often with ribbons and small bells around the knees. Morris dance is said to have originated as a dance of shepherds and is still performed by people who try to preserve the old English traditions. This folk dance is traditionally performed by men to the accompaniment of violin, concertina, etc. The dancers often represent characters of the Robin Hood legend, common in England, especially in May Day festivities.
Dances from some parts of England involve waving handkerchieves; ill others the dancers bang sticks together. The tradition nearly died out in the 19th century, but was revived as a hobby ill the 20th century.