As the days lengthen and the air warms, Cornwall awakens with a vibrant tapestry of traditions that herald the arrival of spring and the anticipation of summer. From the ancient festival of Beltane on May Day to the joyous celebrations of Midsummer, these customs weave a story of community, heritage, and the enduring spirit of the Cornish people.
May Day: Beltane and the Padstow ‘Obby ‘Oss May Day, or Beltane, marks the beginning of this festive season. In Cornwall, the day is synonymous with the famous ‘Obby ‘Oss festival in Padstow. The town bursts into life with music, dance, and the iconic ‘Obby ‘Osses—mysterious figures cloaked in black, led through the streets by “Teasers” to the beat of drums and accordions. It’s a spectacle that captures the essence of Cornish folklore, a tradition believed to welcome the summer and ensure a bountiful harvest.
Midsummer: Golowan and the Serpent Dance As we approach Midsummer, the Cornish celebrate Golowan, the festival of St. John. With roots stretching back to pagan times, Golowan was once marked by bonfires on hilltops, torchlit processions, and the electing of a Mock Mayor1. The highlight of the festival is Mazey Day in Penzance, where the streets come alive with parades, music, and the revival of the ancient Serpent Dance—a mesmerising chain of people weaving through the town, symbolising the cycle of life and the sun’s journey.
St. John’s Eve and St. Peter’s Eve The festivities reach their zenith on St. John’s Eve (23rd June) and St. Peter’s Eve (28th June), days steeped in tradition and community spirit. Bonfires, known as ‘Tansys Golowan’ in Cornish, are lit, and the night sky is illuminated with fireworks—a nod to the old belief that fire has purifying qualities and can ward off evil spirits1.
The Legacy of Cornish Celebrations These celebrations are more than just annual events; they are a testament to the resilience of Cornish culture. Revived in recent decades, they have become a way for the Cornish to connect with their Celtic roots and showcase their unique identity to the world. They remind us that in Cornwall, tradition is not just about preserving the past; it’s about living it, breathing it, and passing it on to future generations.
As we explore these Cornish traditions from May Day to Midsummer, we’re reminded of the power of community and the importance of keeping local heritage alive. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a visitor drawn to Cornwall’s shores, these traditions offer a chance to step into a world where folklore, festivity, and the Cornish spirit intertwine to create something truly magical.
Join us in Cornwall, where every dance step, every flicker of bonfire flame, and every note of music tells the story of a land rich in history and heart. Here, the traditions of May Day to Midsummer aren’t just observed; they’re felt—a vibrant part of the Cornish way of life.
