Padstow Obby Oss festival takes place today

It's one of the oldest surviving festivals in the UK

May pole in Padstow town centre on May Day celebrations
Author: Sophie SquiresPublished 1st May 2024
Last updated 1st May 2024

Padstow is coming together to celebrate May Day, as its famous Obby Oss festival returns for 2024.

The yearly event to mark the beginning of Spring is held on the 1st May - unless that day falls on a Sunday, in which case it is held on Monday 2nd May.

The exact origins of the tradition is unknown, but it is thought to be connected with the ancient Celtic festival of Beltane.

The festival starts at 10.00am as the 'Blue Oss' appears, followed by the 'Old Oss' (Red Oss) at 11.00am.

The custom has been carried out by Padstonians for centuries and involves the two Osses parading round the streets of the town with plenty of music, dancing and 'teasing' of the Oss.

Mark grew up in Padstow and now lives in Kent, but he comes back every year for the festivities: "It's 330 miles one way but it's well worth the effort just to meet so many friends.

"I just think it's a unique situation where people come back to their home town to all meet up once a year. There can't be many towns that have that situations. It's a fantastic occasion."

Max made sure to get to the town before celebrations got underway: "I must have got down here about 9.00am and met my older brother - he's in the band. It's just nice following it around, seeing the Oss come out and then chilling out all day."

"May Day is particularly special in Padstow"

John Stephens is the owner of The Old Ship Hotel in Padstow - this is his 41st May Day as landlord: "It's always a good time.

"Although I'm from Wales and my old family are from Padstow, I don't show an allegiance to any particular Oss, but I love the fact that it's going on. It's just a wonderful atmosphere.

"The day after May Day as well when the locals get out together and they renew friendships if they're different Osses, that's something for the people to come and witness."

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